Can corneal ulcers spread to other pets?

Some infectious corneal ulcers may be contagious. If you have multiple pets at home, temporarily separate them and ask your vet whether further testing or precautions are needed.

What tests are typically done at the clinic?

Common tests include fluorescein staining, slit-lamp examination, and corneal surface assessment. If infection is suspected, samples may be taken for bacterial culture or PCR to identify the source.

What can I do at home to help?

Keep the area around the eye clean, document symptoms, and take photos. Avoid applying any eye drops without veterinary guidance and prevent your pet from rubbing the eye. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek veterinary care promptly.

How long does it take to see improvement after treatment?

Superficial ulcers may begin to improve within a few days, but deeper or infected ulcers can take several weeks to months. Recovery time depends on the severity and how closely follow-up care is maintained.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Corneal Ulcers in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Fluorescein Test & Treatment Guide [2025]

Ulcerative keratitis is a defect in the corneal surface that can be caused by trauma, infection, or eyelid abnormalities. Assessment of ulcer depth and infection risk is essential. Superficial ulcers respond to medication alone, while deep ulcers may require surgical repair.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek emergency care immediately

•Eyeball rupture with exposed tissue and heavy bleeding
•Severe, unrelenting eye pain that cannot be soothed
•Sudden vision loss or clearly unequal pupils

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent eye discharge or purulent secretions lasting more than one day
•Frequent blinking or pawing at the eye with no improvement
•Cloudy sclera or cornea accompanied by behavioral changes

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Ulcerative keratitis commonly causes eye discomfort and visual changes. Pet owners can watch for the following signs.

Corneal cloudiness or loss of transparency, appearing grey-white or hazy to the naked eye
Persistent eye discharge that may be thick or purulent
Frequent blinking, pawing at, or rubbing the eye in an attempt to relieve discomfort
Redness or swelling around the eye or in the conjunctiva
Sensitivity to light, or keeping the eye tightly shut and reluctance to open it
Be alert to any changes in activity level or appetite

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Ruptured eyeball or prolapsed ocular contents with heavy bleeding
⚠️ Severe, persistent eye pain that cannot be relieved
⚠️ Sudden loss of vision or markedly unequal pupils

02How to Assess at Home: Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care

Observing and documenting your pet's condition at home before the appointment helps the vet quickly understand how the condition has progressed.

Note when symptoms started and how they have changed (date and time of day)
Take close-up photos and short videos from the front, side, and with the eye closed
Monitor for noticeable changes in appetite, alertness, or activity level
Record any changes in urination, water intake, or other physical habits
Avoid applying eye drops or human medications on your own; note any products already used
If symptoms worsen, arrange an ophthalmology appointment or emergency visit as soon as possible

03How Will the Vet Diagnose This? Common Examination Steps

An ophthalmology specialist will perform a thorough examination and arrange any necessary tests or imaging as needed.

Comprehensive ophthalmic exam including corneal surface assessment and fluorescein staining

Slit-lamp biomicroscopy to evaluate corneal thickness, anterior chamber, and lens

If infection is suspected, discharge may be collected for bacterial culture or PCR

Blood and biochemistry panels to assess systemic or metabolic issues

Anaesthetic assessment or advanced imaging (such as ocular ultrasound) if required

Referral to a specialist ophthalmology centre will be recommended if surgical treatment is needed

04Treatment and Care After Diagnosis: Medications, Diet Adjustments, and Home Care

Treatment varies depending on ulcer depth and infection status; regular follow-up visits are needed to monitor healing.

Topical eye medications are the mainstay of treatment, targeting infection control and epithelial healing
Deep or deteriorating ulcers may require surgical intervention or corneal repair
The eye must be protected during treatment or recovery to prevent your pet from rubbing it
Attend scheduled recheck appointments for fluorescein staining to assess corneal healing
Home care includes administering eye drops, gently cleaning discharge, and monitoring for changes
If there is no improvement, further specialist surgical evaluation may be necessary

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet

Document when symptoms first appeared, how they have changed, and any worsening

List all medications, supplements, and eye products used, along with when they were given

Bring photos and videos you have taken (front view, side view, eye closed)

Have your pet's medical history, vaccination records, and surgical history ready

Note whether any other pets at home are showing similar symptoms

Book an ophthalmology appointment in advance to avoid delays

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

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