Peke-face Persian corneal ulcers. Infographic.

Peke-face Persians are particularly susceptible to developing corneal ulcers due to their prominent eyes, facial conformation, and associated tear production or drainage issues. Regular eye care and early intervention when symptoms appear are essential in managing and preventing corneal ulcers in these cats. If untreated, corneal ulcers can lead to more severe complications, including vision loss or even the loss of the affected eye.

Infographic on the Peke-face Persian’s predisposition to developing corneal ulcers by Michael Broad

Click this link to see more infographics on inherited health problems connected to the Peke-face Persian’s extreme breeding over many decades.

Here is an image which emphasises the bulging eye of the Peke-face Persian which exposes the cornea and creates problems in terms of natural eye maintenance by the cat.

Bulging eye of the Peke-face Persian which can exacerbate the development of corneal ulcers

Below is a full discussion in bullet form on corneal ulcers in Peke-face Persians courtesy ChatGPT if you want more and expand on the information provided in the infographic.

Peke-face Persians, with their extreme brachycephalic (flat-faced) features, are predisposed to developing corneal ulcers, which is a serious and painful condition involving damage to the cornea, the clear, outermost layer of the eye. The unique facial structure of these cats leads to several eye-related complications, with corneal ulcers being one of the most significant.

Reasons for Predisposition to Corneal Ulcers:

Prominent, Bulging Eyes:

Peke-face Persians have large, protruding eyes due to their flat facial structure. This increases the likelihood of physical trauma to the cornea, as the eyes are more exposed and less protected by the eyelids or facial features.

Incomplete Eyelid Closure (Lagophthalmos):

Because of their facial conformation, some Peke-face Persians cannot fully close their eyelids, a condition known as lagophthalmos. This leads to chronic dryness of the cornea, leaving it more vulnerable to irritation, infection, and ulceration.

Shallow orbits and reduced tear film:

The shallow eye sockets in these cats contribute to a poor distribution of the tear film across the surface of the eye. Tears are essential for maintaining eye moisture, protecting the cornea, and helping clear away debris. Without adequate tear coverage, the cornea can become dry and more prone to developing ulcers.

Entropion (Inward-rolling Eyelids):

Some Peke-face Persians suffer from entropion, where the eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes or eyelid skin to rub against the cornea. This constant irritation can damage the cornea, leading to ulcers.

Tear Duct Obstruction:

As mentioned earlier, Peke-face Persians often have blocked tear ducts, resulting in poor tear drainage. This tear overflow can also cause moisture to collect around the eyes, leading to bacterial growth, which can infect the cornea and lead to ulcers.

Chronic Conjunctivitis or Infections:

The anatomy of these cats makes them prone to chronic eye infections or conjunctivitis, which can weaken the cornea and increase the risk of ulcer formation.

Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers in Peke-Face Persians:

Eye redness: Inflammation around the eye or in the white of the eye (sclera) is common.
Excessive tearing: The eye may water more than usual in response to pain or irritation.
Squinting or blinking frequently: The cat will show signs of discomfort, often keeping the affected eye partially or fully closed.
Cloudy or whitish appearance on the cornea: Ulcers can cause the normally clear cornea to become cloudy or hazy.
Rubbing or pawing at the eye: Cats with ulcers may attempt to relieve the pain or irritation by rubbing their eyes with their paws or against surfaces.
Discharge from the eye: In severe cases, the eye may produce a yellow or green discharge, indicating infection.

Diagnosis:

Veterinarians use several methods to diagnose corneal ulcers:

Fluorescein dye test: This is a common diagnostic tool in which a special dye is applied to the eye. The dye highlights any ulcers or scratches on the corneal surface.
Ophthalmic examination: A thorough eye examination is performed using magnification to assess the extent of the damage and identify any underlying causes (e.g., entropion or foreign objects).

Treatment of Corneal Ulcers:

Topical medications:

Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are commonly prescribed to prevent or treat infection.
Anti-inflammatory drops (non-steroidal, as steroids can worsen ulcers) are used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Lubricating eye drops help moisten the cornea and aid in healing by protecting the eye from further damage.

E-collar:

An Elizabethan collar (E-collar) may be used to prevent the cat from pawing or rubbing its eyes, which could worsen the ulcer.

Surgery:

In more severe cases or when ulcers don’t heal with medications, surgical intervention may be necessary. Techniques like a conjunctival flap (where part of the conjunctiva is placed over the ulcer to promote healing) or keratotomy (removing dead tissue to stimulate healing) may be performed.
Surgery is also used to correct underlying conditions such as entropion.

Artificial tear supplements:

If lagophthalmos or chronic dry eye is contributing to ulcer formation, artificial tear solutions may be recommended for long-term use to keep the eyes lubricated.

Prevention:

Routine eye care: Regular cleaning of the eyes with saline solution or vet-recommended wipes can help keep them free of debris and infections.
Regular vet check-ups: Frequent monitoring of the eyes by a veterinarian is crucial to catch early signs of dryness, infection, or ulceration, especially in Peke-face Persians due to their predisposition.
Artificial tear drops: For cats with chronic dry eye or incomplete eyelid closure, routine use of lubricating drops can help prevent ulcers from forming.
Surgical correction of entropion or other underlying conditions: If structural issues like entropion are present, early corrective surgery can prevent damage to the cornea.