Pets such as cats, dogs, and birds are not immune to eye diseases caused by viral and bacterial infections. However, eye issues are not limited to infections; injuries or damage can also occur due to fights between animals or accidents.
Dr. Artina Prastiwi, a veterinarian and lecturer at the Department of Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH UGM), explained that the two most common types of eye surgeries performed on animals are cataract surgery and surgery for prolapsus bulbus oculi.
The latter procedure addresses cases where an animal’s eye is displaced due to physical trauma.
Common causes of optic prolapse in animals include barbed wire injuries, being hit by vehicles, or fighting.
“For dogs, cats, and birds, eye injuries are often caused by fights or being poked by the wires of their cages,” Dr. Prastiwi said during an interactive talk show themed “Ophthalmology: Diagnosis and Therapy” on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in Room 101, FKH UGM.
According to Dr. Prastiwi, most cases of eye problems in pets are due to accidents.
“Accidents are typically the most common cause,” she noted.
Surgery can restore the eyes of animals with prolapsus bulbus oculi to their proper position if the eye has not undergone necrosis.
“If the eye is already necrotic, it’s often beyond help. Usually, the eye will turn dark, indicating necrosis,” she added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ida Fitriana, a lecturer in pharmacology at FKH UGM, elaborated on the importance of targeting medication effectively in veterinary ophthalmology.
For example, medications targeting the front of the eye can be administered as drops or liquid solutions.
In addition to drops, topical ointments or injections can also be used.
“The key is understanding the target site and selecting the appropriate route of administration,” Dr. Fitriana explained.
Author: Hanif
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photo: Freepik
Post-editor: Lintang