Entropion in Horses

Entropion is a condition of the eye that is known to affect newly born foals, causing their eyelids to fold inward and press against their cornea. Entropion may be found in one or both of the horse's eyes, leading to extreme irritation and “runny,” watery eyes, similar to conjunctivitis. If it is not treated quickly, it may also lead to acute conjunctivitis.

Symptoms

A horse with entropion will have irritated or red eye(s) and the horse's cornea -- the transparent front of the eye -- may change to a grayish color.

Causes

Entropion is due to a horse's misshapen eyelids. This not only causes them to press up against the cornea but allows the horse's eyelashes to brush and irritate the eye.

Diagnosis

A veterinarian will use a special tool to look at the horse's eye(s) and measure the distance between the eyelid and the eye. Irritated eyes are another good indicator of entropion.