Eye Ulcer was almost healed then enlarged. Vet wants to scratch it?

Thanks for reaching out with your concern. It's understandable to be worried about your pet's eye—those little peepers are vital! When an eye ulcer, which is essentially an open sore on the cornea, enlarges after seemingly improving, it might indicate several things. The new growth could be due to trauma, infection, or an underlying issue that needs addressing, like dry eye or a condition that delays healing.



Your vet's suggestion to "scratch" the ulcer may sound alarming, but it's often a procedure known as debridement. This involves gently removing loose or dead tissue to promote faster healing, as it encourages healthier cells to populate the area. While it might sound invasive, it's a standard and usually safe procedure.



At home, ensure your pet doesn't rub or scratch the affected eye. This can be managed with an Elizabethan collar or other distraction techniques. Keep the eye clean, and follow any care instructions your vet provided, like applying prescribed ointments or eye drops.



Watch for signs of more severe issues: if your pet seems to be in pain, the eye becomes more opaque or changes color, or there's increased discharge or redness, consult your vet immediately.



For personalized advice on your pet's situation, consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. We're here to help guide you through this.