Ilfov/ Veterinary Ophthalmology

Veterinary Ophthalmology deals with diseases of the eyes and their surrounding structures, eyelids, tear glands and orbit, in dogs, cats and other companion animals. A veterinary ophthalmology consultation uses specific instruments, the slit-lamp biomicroscope, the ophthalmoscope, a tonometer for intraocular pressure, the Schirmer tear test and corneal staining, to assess very small structures accurately. Conditions treated include corneal ulcers, glaucoma, cataracts, uveitis, dry eye, entropion, blocked tear ducts and inherited retinal disease.

An owner reaches an ophthalmologist when an eye becomes red, cloudy or painful, when the animal blinks a lot, holds an eyelid shut, has a persistent discharge, seems to see less well in dim light or bumps into things. Many ocular emergencies, such as a deep corneal ulcer or a sudden rise in intraocular pressure, need prompt treatment to save sight, so waiting is not a good idea. Some breeds are predisposed to particular eye diseases, and a periodic check helps catch them before they cause symptoms.

When you choose a veterinary ophthalmology service, check whether the unit has the basic equipment for a full eye examination, whether the vet has specific ophthalmology experience, and whether procedures can be done on site, from corneal suturing to cataract surgery, or referred to a centre that performs them. Ask whether intraocular pressure is measured routinely, because untreated glaucoma leads quickly to loss of sight. The cost includes the specialist consultation, the eye tests and, where needed, the procedure and follow-up checks; ask for an estimate and ask how often the eye must be reviewed after treatment.

Do not put leftover drops from a previous treatment, or human products, into the eye without the vet's instruction, because some make an ulcer worse; until the consultation, stop the animal rubbing at the eye with a protective collar. Use this directory to find clinics offering veterinary ophthalmology in your city, compare equipment and experience, and open each page for contact details, a map and reviews before booking an eye consultation.