Table of Contents
Understanding Ectropion in Dogs and Cats: Causes Symptoms, and Treatment
Commonality: Moderate
Transmission: Not Contagious
Impact on Health: Medium to High
Symptoms: Redness and swelling of the eye, excessive tearing, squinting, frequent blinking, sensitivity to light, visible inward rolling of the eyelid, corneal ulcers, eye discharge, rubbing or pawing at the eyes
Treatment Cost: $3000 – $2000 +
Treatment and Recovery Time: 2 weeks post surgery + ongoing
Ease of Prevention: Difficult, Primarily Genetic
Dog Breeds Most Commonly Affected: Cocker Spaniel, Clumber Spaniel, Saint Bernard, BloodHound, Bernese Mountain Dog, Mastiff
Cat Breeds Most Commonly Affected : Rare in cats, Persians and Himalayans
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- Early Detection is Key: Regularly check your pet’s eyes for any signs of ectropion such as excessive tearing or redness to catch it early.
- Consult a Veterinarian: If you suspect ectropion in your pet, seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- Surgical Correction: In severe cases, surgical options may be necessary to address ectropion and prevent complications like eye infections.
- Breed Awareness: Certain dog and cat breeds are more prone to ectropion, so understanding breed susceptibility can aid in proactive management.
- Post-Surgery Care: After surgical intervention, follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome and minimise risks of recurrence.
- Regular Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your pet post-surgery for any changes or complications, and report them promptly to your vet.
What is Ectropion
For The Non Vets
Imagine you’re wearing a pair of socks that are way too loose. Instead of staying up and hugging your ankles snugly, they flop over and hang down like sad, wilted flowers. Not only does this look ridiculous, but it also leaves your ankles exposed and feeling all sorts of uncomfortable.
Ectropion in pets is like those floppy socks. Normally, the eyelid should fit snugly against the eye, like a well-fitted sock should stay up on your ankle. But in ectropion, the eyelid decides to throw a tantrum and roll outward, drooping away from the eye like it’s given up on life. This leaves the inner eyelid and eye surface exposed, making it dry, irritated, and more likely to get gunked up with dirt and infections—just like your poor ankles would get cold and dirty without the protection of proper socks.
The Vets Response
Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid, typically the lower one, rolls outward and droops away from the eye. In a healthy eye, the eyelid fits snugly against the surface of the eye, providing protection and helping to keep it moist. However, in ectropion, the outward turning of the eyelid leaves the inner eyelid and the surface of the eye exposed.
This exposure can lead to a range of issues, including dryness, irritation, and an increased risk of infections. The condition can cause significant discomfort for the affected pet, as the exposed areas are more susceptible to environmental irritants and debris.
Importance for Pet Owners
Understanding ectropion is crucial for pet owners because it enables early detection and treatment, preventing discomfort and serious complications for their pets. Recognizing the signs allows for timely veterinary intervention, which can improve long-term health outcomes and ensure the pet’s comfort. Additionally, being informed provides peace of mind and confidence in managing their pet’s health, making pet owners even better caregivers.
The Slightly More Scientific Explanation of Ectropion
Let’s start with a quick anatomy lesson. The eye is like a high-tech camera. It has a lens (the cornea) that focuses light, a diaphragm (the iris) that controls the amount of light entering, and a film (the retina) that captures the image. Surrounding all this high-tech gear are the eyelids, which act like the camera’s protective case, keeping everything safe and clean.
Now, imagine if your camera case was too loose and kept flopping open, leaving your precious camera exposed to dust and damage. That’s what happens with ectropion in pets. Normally, the eyelid fits snugly against the eye, protecting it and keeping it moist. But with ectropion, the eyelid rolls outward and droops away, much like that floppy camera case.
When the eyelid droops outward, the inner eyelid and the eye’s surface are left exposed. This exposure can lead to dryness, irritation, and a higher risk of infections. It’s like leaving your camera lens out in the open during a dust storm—definitely not ideal.
Ectropion Causes in Pets
Genetic Predisposition
Some breeds are more prone to ectropion due to their genetic makeup. Congenital ectropion, which a dog is born with, is the most common form of this condition in veterinary practice. Breeds with loose, saggy skin around their eyes are particularly susceptible because their facial structure naturally leads to a looser fit of the eyelids. These breeds include 1,2 ,
- Cocker Spaniel
- Clumber Spaniel
- Saint Bernard
- Bloodhound
- Basset Hound
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Mastiff
- Newfoundland
- Bulldog
- Chow Chow
- English Springer Spaniel
- American Cocker Spaniel
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Persians
- Himalayans
Nerve Damage
Damage to the facial nerves, which control the muscles around the eyes, can result in a loss of muscle tone and lead to ectropion. Nerve damage can occur due to injuries, infections, or neurological conditions. When the nerves are damaged, they can’t effectively signal the muscles to keep the eyelids in their proper position, leading to drooping and outward rolling of the eyelids 1,2.
Chronic Inflammation and Infection
Long-term inflammation from conditions such as conjunctivitis or other eye infections can cause the eyelid tissues to weaken and droop outward over time. Chronic irritation can lead to changes in the eyelid’s structure and function. As the tissues become inflamed and swollen repeatedly, they may stretch and lose their ability to maintain the correct position, resulting in ectropion 1.
Surgical Overcorrection of Ectropion
Sometimes, surgery to correct entropion (inward-rolling eyelids) can overcorrect the problem, causing the eyelids to roll outward instead. This surgical overcorrection can lead to ectropion, requiring additional treatment to restore proper eyelid function 1.
Recognizing Symptoms
- Visible outward rolling or drooping of the lower eyelid, leaving the inner part of the eyelid exposed.
- Redness and inflammation of the exposed inner eyelid due to irritation and environmental exposure.
- Excessive tearing, as the eyelid’s inability to properly hold tears can lead to tears spilling over the edge of the eyelid.
- Dryness of the eye, as tears are not effectively distributed across the eye’s surface despite excessive tearing.
- Mucous or pus-like discharge from the eye, especially if an infection is present due to the exposed inner eyelid.
- Frequent pawing at or rubbing of the eyes in an attempt to relieve discomfort caused by irritation and dryness.
- Squinting or blinking more often as pets try to protect their eyes from further irritation.
- Sensitivity to light, causing discomfort when exposed to bright environments.
- Corneal ulcers or erosion due to constant exposure and irritation, which are painful and can further damage the eye.
- Changes in vision, including blurriness or even vision loss in severe cases due to damage to the cornea and chronic irritation.
Diagnosing Ectropion
Physical Examination
Veterinarians diagnose ectropion in dogs and cats through a physical examination of the eyes. During this process, they carefully inspect the eyelids for any signs of outward rolling or drooping, which are characteristic of this condition. By visually examining the affected area, veterinarians can often confirm the presence of ectropion.
Evaluation for Underlying Conditions
The veterinarian will also check for any underlying conditions that could contribute to ectropion, such as hypothyroidism, chronic inflammation, or neuromuscular disease. Blood tests or other diagnostic tests might be conducted to identify these conditions.
Fluorescein Staining
To detect corneal ulcers or abrasions, a special dye called fluorescein is applied to the surface of the eye. This dye helps highlight any areas of damage caused by the exposed and irritated eyelid. The veterinarian will then examine the eye under ultraviolet (UV) light, where any damaged areas will glow, indicating the presence of corneal ulcers or scratches.
Importance of Timely and Accurate Diagnosis
Timely and accurate diagnosis of ectropion is crucial for initiating appropriate management strategies promptly. Early detection allows veterinarians to implement interventions that can alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications. By addressing ectropion early on, veterinarians can improve the quality of life for affected animals and enhance their overall well-being.
Tailoring the treatment plan to meet your pet’s specific needs is paramount for achieving positive outcomes in managing ectropion. Each animal may respond differently to various treatment options, so it is crucial to customise the care plan accordingly. Factors such as the pet’s age, overall health status, and the severity of ectropion play a significant role in determining the most effective course of action.
Treatment Options – Non Surgical
Lubricating eye drops are crucial for effectively managing mild cases of ectropion in both dogs and cats. These drops moisturise the eyes, countering the discomfort caused by the eyelids rolling outward. Keeping the eyes well-hydrated not only improves your pet’s comfort but also minimises symptoms such as redness and excessive tearing. For additional care, veterinary ophthalmologists may suggest topical medications to reduce inflammation and encourage healing. In cases where a bacterial infection or corneal ulcer has developed, your vet will prescribe antibiotic drops to tackle these issues 3 . Moreover, for pets displaying minimal clinical signs, a conservative approach involving flushing the eyes with irrigating solutions and applying a protective ophthalmic lubricant (like an ointment or gel) may be recommended. These strategies are vital for addressing any underlying infections or irritations that could intensify the symptoms of ectropion. Ensuring that these medications are applied correctly is key to their effectiveness, allowing them to reach and treat the impacted areas of the eye effectively. Lubricating eye drops are vital for managing mild cases of ectropion in dogs and cats. These drops provide moisture to the eyes, helping to prevent irritation from the eyelids rolling outward. By maintaining hydration, the drops enhance your pet’s comfort and help alleviate symptoms like redness and excessive tearing. Additionally, veterinary ophthalmologists might recommend topical eye medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing. If a bacterial infection or corneal ulcer is present, your veterinarian will prescribe antibiotic drops to address the infection 3.Dogs with minimal clinical signs may be treated conservatively by flushing debris from the eye with eye irrigating solutions and applying a protective ophthalmic lubricant (usually an ointment or gel 4). These treatments are particularly important for tackling any underlying infections or irritations that could worsen ectropion symptoms. Proper application of these medications is essential to ensure they effectively target the affected areas of the eye.Treatment Options – Surgical
For severe cases of ectropion in pets, surgical correction is often the best treatment option. This involves tightening the eyelid muscles to properly reposition them, which helps prevent complications like corneal ulcers or chronic eye infections. Consulting with a veterinary specialist is essential to choose the appropriate surgical technique for your pet’s specific condition.
1.Tarsal Strip Procedure:
2. Excision of a Diamond of Tarsus and Conjunctiva:
3. Medial Canthal Tendon Plication or Resection:
4. Z-Plasty:
This technique involves making a Z-shaped incision to lengthen the skin and correct scarring or tightening of the eyelid. It is effective for localized defects.
5. Skin Replacement:
Postoperative Care
After ectropion surgery, proper postoperative care is essential for optimal healing and to prevent complications. Patients are usually prescribed antibiotic ointments to prevent infection and may need to use steroid drops to reduce inflammation. The surgical area may be lightly bandaged for the first 24-48 hours, and applying cold compresses can help minimise swelling. Patients should avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye and limit strenuous activities for at least one to two weeks. Elevating the head while resting can also aid in reducing swelling. Follow-up appointments are important to monitor healing, remove sutures if necessary, and ensure the eyelid is properly positioned. With proper care, most patients experience significant relief from symptoms, including reduced tearing and irritation, with a high success rate for long-term recovery.
Cost of Treatment
The overall cost of treating ectropion in dogs and cats can vary significantly, ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor cases requiring only medications—which might cost between $20 to $50 per month—to several thousand dollars for more severe cases needing surgical intervention, which can range from ~$1700 per eye 6,7. Additional expenses include initial veterinary consultations ($50 to $150), post-operative care, and regular follow-up visits ($50 to $100 each). While surgery may involve initial expenses, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits and improved quality of life for the pet. Discussing financial options with the veterinarian can help pet owners make informed decisions regarding their pet’s healthcare 7. Disclaimer : These costs can vary based on the veterinary practice and the specific needs of the pet.Prevention Tips
Regular Eye Examinations:
Regular vet check-ups can help detect early signs of ectropion or any underlying eye issues. This allows for early intervention before the condition worsens.
Prompt Treatment of Eye Infections
If your pet develops an eye infection or inflammation, treat it promptly with veterinarian-prescribed medications. Chronic or untreated infections can contribute to the development of ectropion.
Preventive Measures
Protect your pet from any trauma or injury around the eyes, as scarring or damage to the eyelids can lead to cicatricial ectropion (caused by scarring).
Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Obesity can sometimes cause changes in the skin and muscle structure around the face, potentially contributing to the development of ectropion. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight with proper nutrition is important.
Getting Ectropion Covered with Pet Insurance
What is Petsy Pet Insurance?
Petsy Pet Insurance is an insurance policy that reimburses 80% or 90% of vet costs for the treatment of your pet if they suffer an unexpected injury or illness (provided these occur after any applicable exclusion period has ended symptom free).
Our policy is customisable and you’ll be able to tailor the level of coverage, based on your preferences for the Benefit Percentage, Annual Limit, Annual Excess, whether or not you’d like Optional Extra Benefits (if your pet is less than 3 years old) and whether or not you’d like to include costs of Vet Consultations for your cover.
You get to see a summary of the cover when completing an online quote and have the option to select a preferred start date. After making the payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of cover and your policy documents by email.
For added peace of mind, we offer a complimentary Pre-Existing Condition Assessment for all our members. This includes collecting your pet’s vet history upfront which helps to fast-track any future claims and we’ll also let you know whether there are any pre-existing conditions noted in their medical history that might affect your ongoing coverage.
Claims are quick and easy, and your vet can submit claims on your behalf. Approved claims are paid into your nominated bank account.
What is a pre-existing condition?
Under the terms of the policy, Pre-existing Condition is defined as:
An Injury, Illness, Dental Illness, Behavioural Condition or Specified Condition (including Bilateral Conditions, recurrent Conditions and other conditions that are related to, secondary to, or results of) that:
- first occurred or showed symptoms of; or
- was identified or investigated by a Vet; or
- You were aware of or a reasonable person in the circumstances could be expected to have known about, before Your Pet’s First Date of Cover; before a change of coverage became effective, or during any applicable Exclusion Period.
Whether a condition is considered a pre-existing condition depends on when the signs or symptoms occurred and when the exclusion periods on your policy end. Anything that happened before the exclusion periods ended is considered a pre-existing condition because it started before your coverage began.
Covered by Petsy
We cover Ectropion as long as it’s not pre-existing condition and your pet hasn’t shown signs or symptoms of the condition within the exclusion period.
A specified condition includes specific health issues, including cruciate ligament damage, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia, patella luxation, elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), cherry eye, entropion, ectropion, and lumps.
Ectropion is a specified condition that has a 6 month exclusion period.
Once this period has passed and as long as your pet hasn’t shown symptoms, we can help to cover the vet costs for unexpected injuries and illnesses like Ectropion.
Can Petsy Insurance Cover My Pet’s Ectropion?
It depends on when you started your policy. If the signs or symptoms of Ectropion appeared before your policy began or during the exclusion period, it won’t be covered. But if you had an active policy and Ectropion happened unexpectedly, we can help to cover the costs.
If you’re a Petsy customer and are unsure about your exclusion periods and when the symptoms first appeared, you can request a pre-existing condition assessment. We’ll reach out to your vet for your pet’s medical history and let you know if your policy can cover it.
If you’re considering Petsy Pet Insurance, you can also reach out to our customer care team on 1300 952 790 for more information.
Does Petsy cover Ectropion?
Yes, Ectropion is covered under our standard policy. However, we can’t cover it if it’s a pre-existing condition, for example, if signs or symptoms appeared before your policy started or during the exclusion period. Petsy is here to protect you against unexpected vet costs.
How Petsy Pet Insurance can help with Ectropion
At Petsy, we understand how difficult it is when your pet faces Ectropion. Our insurance can help cover the costs of treatment, but it’s important to start your policy early, before any signs or symptoms appear.
Stay alert to any signs of Ectropion, and seek veterinary care proactively. Catching things early can make a big difference in your pet’s well-being and help them receive the best possible care.
Waiver Form
You can apply to reduce the 6-month exclusion period for Specified Conditions by using our Waiver Form. Simply take this form to your next vet visit and make sure to submit the completed form back to us within 14 days of the visit.
The conditions that this waiver applies to include cruciate ligament damage, intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia, patella luxation, elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), cherry eye, entropion, ectropion, and lumps.
Here’s how to apply:
- Fill out Part 1: You start by completing Part 1 of the form.
- Vet Examination: Have your vet examine your pet and complete Part 2 of the form.
- Submit the Form: Send the completed form along with your pet’s full veterinary history to us within 14 days of the examination.
- Receive an updated Certificate of Insurance: Once the review is complete, we’ll issue an updated Certificate of Insurance detailing any reduced exclusion periods for specified conditions.
You can find the waiver form on our website under the ‘Policy Documents’ section, or contact us directly and we’ll send it to you.
Conclusion
Understanding ectropion in dogs and cats is crucial. Identifying causes, recognising symptoms, diagnosing the condition, exploring treatment options, understanding surgical solutions, preventing the issue, knowing breed susceptibility, assessing surgery success rates, and considering prognosis are all vital steps in managing this condition effectively. By being informed and proactive, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your furry companions. Remember, early detection and appropriate treatment play key roles in addressing ectropion. Stay vigilant, consult your vet if you notice any concerning signs, and follow their guidance closely to keep your pets healthy and happy.
The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the pet. Non-surgical treatments are beneficial for managing mild cases, while surgical options provide more permanent solutions for severe dysplasia. Each treatment option has its costs and recovery timelines, emphasising the importance of early detection and proactive management.
Pet insurance, like that offered by Petsy, can be a valuable resource for covering the costs associated with hip dysplasia treatment. By understanding the condition and taking preventive measures, pet owners can better manage their pets’ health and ensure they lead comfortable, active lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ectropion is a condition where a dog or cat's eyelid rolls outward, exposing the inner eyelid and causing irritation. It can lead to eye infections and discomfort for your pet.
Causes of ectropion in pets include genetics, breed predisposition, facial structure abnormalities, and age-related changes. Environmental factors may also contribute to the development of this condition.
Symptoms of ectropion in pets include excessive tearing, redness, inflammation, squinting, and visible white tissue in the corner of the eye. Regularly check your pet's eyes for these signs.
While surgery is a common treatment for ectropion, especially in severe cases, milder forms may be managed with topical ointments or medications to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Yes, certain breeds like Bloodhounds, Saint Bernards, Cocker Spaniels, and Persians are more prone to ectropion due to their facial anatomy. Understanding breed predispositions can help in early detection and management.
References
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PetMD Editorial. Lower Eyelid Drooping in Cats [Internet]. Petmd.com. PetMD; 2012. Available from: https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/eyes/c_ct_ectropion
Animal Health Clinic [Internet]. Animalhealthvet.com. 2022. Available from: https://www.animalhealthvet.com/site/blog/2022/08/15/ectropion-in-dogs
ALSAAD KM. A Common Problems Of Dog Eyes (A Review). IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science. 2021;22.
de Menezes Bedran EG, Correia Pereira MV, Bernardes TF. Ectropion. InSeminars in Ophthalmology 2010 May 1 (Vol. 25, No. 3, pp. 59-65). Taylor & Francis.
Goodna Vet Eye Health S. Entropion Surgery for Pets | Goodna Vet Eye Health Services [Internet]. Goodna Vet. 2018 [cited 2024 Oct 3]. Available from: https://www.goodnavet.com.au/entropion-surgery
Melbourne Pet Surgery. Entropion Surgery & Treatment for Dogs | Melbourne Pet Surgery [Internet]. Melbourne Pet Surgery. 2024. Available from: https://www.melbournepetsurgery.com.au/entropion-dogs
