# Recurrent vs. Nonrecurrent Superficial Non-Healing Corneal Ulcers in Cats: A Multifactorial Retrospective Analysis

## TL;DR

This study found that older cats with systemic illnesses are more likely to have recurring corneal ulcers, which require longer and more intensive treatment.

## Contribution

The study identifies age, breed, and systemic illness as key factors in the recurrence of feline corneal ulcers.

## Key findings

- Recurrent ulcers were more common in older cats and non-brachycephalic breeds.
- Recurrent cases required more intensive treatment and had higher rates of corneal sequestrum.
- Systemic medications like lysine and famciclovir were more frequently used in recurrent cases.

## Abstract

This study evaluated 136 feline eyes with superficial non-healing ulcers, comparing outcomes between recurrent (113 eyes) and nonrecurrent cases (23 eyes) based on treatment timing, methods, medications, and complications such as age, breed, sex, and other factors. Recurrent corneal ulcers occurred significantly more commonly in older cats and were more frequently seen in females and non-brachycephalic breeds. Recurrent ulcers were more likely to be bilateral, required longer and more intensive treatment, and had higher rates of corneal sequestrum. Treatment included corneal debridement, topical and systemic medications, and surgery for complicated cases. Recurrent cases were more frequently associated with receiving systemic medications, including lysine and famciclovir. Concurrent systemic diseases, especially infections, were more common in the recurrent group, suggesting underlying illness contributes to recurrence. These ulcers are more frequent in older, systemically ill cats and require longer treatment. Early diagnosis and addressing both ocular and systemic health support better recovery.

Feline superficial non-healing corneal ulcers are persistent lesions requiring individualized treatment to reduce recurrence. This retrospective study evaluated 136 affected eyes (113 nonrecurrent; 23 recurrent) to identify clinical and treatment-related factors associated with recurrence. Recurrent ulcers were more common in older cats (7.2 ± 4.3 vs. 5.1 ± 4.6 years; p = 0.026). Domestic Shorthairs were the most frequently affected breed (50%), and central ulcer location predominated in both groups. Recurrent cases required more intensive management, with 16.9% needing ≥ 2 treatment courses, compared to 83% of nonrecurrent cases resolving after a single course. Healing time following corneal debridement was longer in recurrent cases (32.3 ± 34.4 vs. 25.5 ± 23.1 days; p = 0.272), and corneal sequestrum occurred more frequently (13.0% vs. 10.6%; p = 0.735). Corneal debridement was the primary treatment modality. Systemic medications were more often used in recurrent cases, notably oral lysine (47.8% vs. 26.5%; p = 0.049) and famciclovir (17.4% vs. 2.6%; p = 0.016). Recurrent cases also showed significantly higher rates of concurrent viral (p < 0.001) and bacterial/fungal infections (p = 0.027). In conclusion, recurrent superficial non-healing corneal ulcers were associated with age and systemic illness, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and management of underlying conditions.