Veterinary Tonometer

The most common eye disease in animals is glaucoma, also known as “green cataract” or “green star.” In this condition, the optic nerve becomes irreversibly and permanently damaged due to consistently elevated intraocular pressure. Glaucoma often causes severe headaches and, if left untreated, gradually leads to loss of vision.

Typical clinical symptoms include frequent squinting, increased tearing, reddened conjunctiva, corneal clouding and dilated pupils. Due to severe headache, affected animals may also show reduced appetite and increased sleep.

In addition to glaucoma, a reduced intraocular pressure — known as uveitis — can also cause long-term damage to the optic nerve and eventually lead to blindness. The symptoms of both conditions are similar. Most dogs are affected between the ages of 4 and 6 years or later.

Measuring intraocular pressure with the Icare® TONOVET Tonometer, for example, is based on the rebound method and is well tolerated by dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and horses, as it is painless and takes only a few seconds.

Depending on the tonometer used, corneal local anaesthesia is not even necessary. Rebound tonometers perform the measurement particularly gently and carefully, making it completely painless.

This method can be carried out, for example, with the TONOVET Plus intraocular pressure meter. With just one button press, six consecutive measurements are taken.

During the procedure, a small measuring probe gently rebounds against the retina and is slowed down and pushed back depending on the eye’s internal pressure. An integrated magnetic coil then calculates the result. An indicator light that signals whether the measuring angle is correct ensures a precise and simple measurement.

In contrast, with standard applanation tonometry the cornea should be anaesthetised beforehand, since it is touched by the tip of the tonometer to obtain precise and accurate values. During the measurement, the rounded tip exerts pressure on the eyeball, causing it to flatten. The more force required, the higher the intraocular pressure.