CHAPTER XXIII 



DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE EYE. 



LIKE most other animals the horse is subject to injury 

 and disease of the eyes. The commonest of these is 

 ophthalmia, or inflammation of the mucous membrane 

 lining the eyelids and reflected over the globe of the eye. 



At one time there used to be a specific form of ophthalmia, 

 known as moon-bhndness, attacking horses, commonly com- 

 pletely destroying the sight. Improved sanitation seems to 

 have abolished this severe form of ophthalmia. Sometimes 

 the eyes are very much inflamed during an attack of influenza. 

 The most frequent causes are injuries (torn eyelids), and the 

 entrance of foreign bodies, such as chaff, etc. The treatment, 

 will, of course, be directed to the removal of the cause, if 

 possible, and the daily use of some mild astringent, such as 

 boracic acid solution, or a solution of sulphate of zinc. 



If the cornea becomes opaque, this will require specially 

 treating, therefore call in professional aid. 



CATARACT. 



This is not at all uncommon, and of course it renders the 

 animal's sight very faulty. It is due to a precipitation of 

 albuminous material in the capsule of the crystalhne lens, or 

 else the lens. 



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