(or inverted eyelids)
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Entropion is found in all goat and sheep breeds. The condition is non-lethal; however, entropion can be passed on genetically and any animal with this problem should not be retained for breeding purposes. Some genetic family lines of whiteface breeds of sheep tend to be more prone to this fault. Some people also think that this problem can be caused by environmental conditions such as the extended use of heat lamps or ultraviolet irradiation.
Entropion is a situation where the eyelid(s) are turned in (inversion), causing irritation and abrasions to the surface (cornea) of the eye. This causes severe tearing (lacrimation) and usually occurs in young animals within the first week to 1-2 weeks of life. Generally, the most common location of this condition is found on the lower eyelid. Either one (unilateral entropion) or both (bilateral entropion) eyes may be involved with this condition. If uncorrected, the inverted eyelids damage the cornea of the eye and cause ulceration, cloudiness of the cornea, and sometimes blindness.
In some minor cases of entropion, correction can be made by injecting 1-2 mLs of a long-acting, slowly absorbed antibiotic (procaine penicillin) under the skin of the affected lid. This will help distend and roll the eyelid outward into a proper position and help alleviate some of the irritation. Sometimes staples, suture, or clips are applied to the skin surface of the problem eyelid. In these cases, the tension of the clip or staple alone may pull the lid into proper placement. In many of the younger animals, these procedures are often all that is needed to correct the problem.
This page was last updated on: January 6, 2008
Close-up of entropion in a sheep