Companion Animals

Horse Eye Disease Welfare

Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU) is the leading cause of blindness in horses, causing painful recurring inflammatory episodes that progressively damage vision and require long-term management.

Key Facts

ERU affects approximately 10-25% of horses in some populations depending on breed
Appaloosas and warmbloods are disproportionately affected with genetic predisposition
Each uveitis episode causes additional permanent damage to ocular structures
Topical and systemic anti-inflammatory treatment during episodes limits damage
Cyclosporin implants and vitrectomy surgery offer options for refractory cases

Welfare Considerations

ERU causes painful recurring inflammation and progressive blindness. Active management of episodes and prevention of recurrence are essential to reduce lifetime suffering in affected horses.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary ophthalmology assessment for any horse with recurrent eye inflammation
Use prescribed topical anti-inflammatories consistently during uveitis episodes
Monitor for early signs of uveitis including squinting, tearing, and light sensitivity
Discuss surgical options including cyclosporin implants with a specialist for chronic cases