Corneal Ulcers: The Most Common Eye Condition Among Dogs in Sri Lanka

This study was aimed to investigate the incidence of corneal ulcers (CU) in dogs focusing on breed, age, gender, affected eye, type of ulcer, location of ulcer, and identifying common causes for formation of CU. A complete ophthalmic examination was conducted on 193 (2.54%) out of 7603 dogs presented to the Rover Veterinary Hospital, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka, from August 2021 to July 2023 with ocular conditions. Of those 193 cases, CU was diagnosed in 38 (19.68%) dogs. The highest incidence of CU was found in dogs aged 1 month to 5 years (71.1%), with males showing a higher ulceration rate (60.5%). Shih Tzu exhibited the highest incidence (34.2%) of CU, and the right eye was more commonly affected (47.4%) with bilateral presentation observed in 18.4% of the cases. Idiopathic ulcers (24.5%) were the mostly reported CU while possible dog/cat fights and Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) each rated at 17.8% (n=8) as the cause of CU. Superficial ulcers were more frequently found in non-brachycephalic breeds, while descemetocele showed a higher incidence in brachycephalic breeds. Most ulcers were located centrally (73.3%). The environmental temperature analysis revealed a mean of 29.20°C, with a varying pattern of eye conditions throughout the year. During May and October, a higher overall incidence of eye conditions was observed, with certain months showing a predominantly higher number of CU cases. This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of CU in dogs in Sri Lanka, emphasising the influence of factors such as age, gender, breed, and environmental conditions. Understanding these aspects contributes to improved diagnosis, management, and preventive strategies for canine CU.