POP QUIZ

Q:Which of the following conditions are influenced, at least partially, by a horse’s genetic makeup? a. laminitis b. enteroliths c. club foot d. all of the

above

For the answer, turn to page 21.

A weepy, grossly swollen eye is a sure sign that something is amiss, but ocular problems in horses are not always so obvious. In fact, some of the more serious eye conditions, such as uveitis , may produce only subtle signs that are easy to miss. Any of the following are cause for further investigation:

• Aversion to light. Bright light can be painful for a horse with an inflammatory eye condition such as uveitis. A horse who prefers to stay in the shadows, especially at times of year when he wouldn’t be seeking cooling shade, may be doing so protect a painful eye.

• Eyelashes that point downward. Equine lashes are typically oriented parallel to the ground or turned slightly upward. If you notice the lashes on one or both of your horse’s eyes point downward, it may be an indication of subtle swelling.

• Yellowing of the iris. Inflammation of the eye can cause the iris---the colored portion of the eye surrounding the pupil---to take on a yellowish tinge. Blue eyes suddenly appear green and brown eyes take on an unusual tan color. Both