Why Is Eye Removal or Ablation Recommended?
The primary goal of this procedure is to ensure your pet’s comfort when an eye becomes painful or non-functional. Eye removal (enucleation) or ablation may be recommended in cases of:
- Glaucoma (severely elevated eye pressure)
- Severe eye infections (endophthalmitis)
- A perforated corneal ulcer
- Suspected cancer within the eye
At the Eye Clinic for Animals, we strive to preserve vision and maintain eye comfort whenever possible. However, if the eye cannot be kept pain-free, removal or ablation may be the most humane and effective option.
We understand that this can be a difficult decision, but rest assured that pets adapt incredibly well to life with one or no eyes and can still enjoy an excellent quality of life.
What Types of Eye Removals Are Available?
There are two main types of eye removal surgeries, as well as a third procedure called ablation, depending on the underlying condition and cosmetic considerations.
1. Intrascleral Prosthesis (Artificial Eye Implant):
This is only possible in patients where a history of an intra-ocular tumour is not likely, and where intra-ocular infection is not present. The shell of the eye is maintained, and a prosthetic silicone ball is placed within the eye. Cosmetically the eye appears very similar to a normal eye and the success rate is >90%. Dogs may require 2-3 months to achieve the final cosmetic result and the surface of the eye still needs to be monitored. Possible complications such as swelling, ulceration and bleeding can occur and are often managed with medications.
2. Enucleation (Full Eye Removal)
- Suitable for all cases requiring eye removal.
- The entire eye and surrounding tissues are removed, and the skin is sutured closed.
- The final appearance is a small indent, which will be covered by fur as it regrows. Many owners say it looks like their pet is “winking.”
- In short-coated animals, a socket implant can be placed to prevent skin sinking, improving the final cosmetic outcome.
- Both procedures are performed to relieve pain and discomfort, allowing pets to live a happy, painfree life.
Surgical Success & Potential Complications
The success rate for eye removal procedures is excellent, with over 95% of cases healing smoothly without complications.
However, as with any surgery, some possible complications may occur, including:
- Swelling and bleeding
- Wound infection
- Suture breakdown
These issues are typically managed with medication and proper post-operative care. In very rare cases, a cyst may form in the eye socket, requiring surgical removal, which is usually curative.
3. Intravitreal injection:
This minimally invasive procedure is used to manage refractory glaucoma in blind pets when standard treatments are ineffective. It involves heavy sedation and an injection into the back of the eye to halt fluid production, reducing intraocular pressure.
When Is This Recommended?
- For pets with uncontrolled glaucoma who are already blind
- For dogs unable to undergo general anesthesia
- As an alternative to eye removal or prosthesis placement
Effectiveness & Follow-Up
- 85% success rate in controlling eye pressure within two weeks
- If a second injection is needed, success increases to 97%
- Can be repeated months or years later if pressure rises again
- Does not prevent future enucleation or prosthetic placement if needed
Potential Complications
- The eye can still develop corneal ulcers or tear film deficiencies
- In some cases, the eye may shrink over time (phthisis bulbi)
- Ongoing monitoring and medication may still be required, though usually at a reduced frequency
This procedure offers a short, effective solution for managing glaucoma-related pain, especially for pets who cannot undergo more invasive surgeries.
Quality of Life for Your Pet
Whichever treatment is best for your pet, the ultimate goal is to ensure comfort and maintain a high quality of life. While losing vision can be an adjustment, dogs and cats adapt exceptionally well, using their other senses—such as smell, hearing, and touch—to navigate their surroundings confidently.
With a consistent routine, small environmental adjustments, and plenty of reassurance, blind pets can still enjoy playing, exploring, and bonding with their families. Many owners find that their pet’s happiness and personality remain unchanged, even after vision loss.