“One side of her face is white and has no pigment around her eye. This eye seems more sensitive than her other eye, with noticeable tearing and redness.”…
We recently purchased a APHA palomino/paint mare. She is 9 yrs old. One side of her face is white and has no pigment around her eye. This eye seems more sensitive than her other eye, with noticeable tearing and redness. Our vet checked her out at the time of purchase and said nothing to worry about. We live in the woods and since she has been here she has started rubbing the hair off of her cheek bones just underneath both eyes. I’ve started using Terramicin on the advice of a friend and her eye looks much better, but she is still rubbing. What can you suggest? I also realize the consumption of too much oak leaves and acorns can be harmful. Any advice? I have learned so much from your website and can spend hours reading all the advice…
Dr. Jack Sales’ Answer:
Hi Lisa,
The eye on the side that has no pigment will probably be more sensitive to the sun and the environment and so you will see signs of irritation on occasion. This can turn to secondary infection of the lining of the eye (conjunctivitis) at times, and you will see a worsening of the symptoms, such as tearing and redness. It would probably be best to have a Veterinarian check the eyes out and suggest an eye ointment that might help. As far as the acorns and oak, if you are feeding your horse well, it is unlikely that he will seek out other things to eat. I hope this helps and good luck.
