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Can an ophthalmoscope detect guinea pig eye scratches or hay?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed

Can you use a ophthalmoscope to see if there's scratches on the front surface of a guinea pig eyes or if there is hay behind the eye? Could you tell me what they are used for and how they work and what you can see with them?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 14th, 2017

You can see some scratches with an ophthalmoscope, however it is much easier to see scratches with a so-called fluorescein test, where a harmless chemical solution is dripped on the eye, and then washed out again. The fluorescein will "dye" a scratch neon green and so it can be seen easily. If you suspect your guinea pig to have an eye injury you need to take it to your vet right away, as this is always an emergency.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 15th, 2017

    Usually the scratch can be seen without magnification lens and yes the ophthalmoscope is needed to look inside the anterior chamber. Fluorescein stain is used by vets to see and diagnose corneal scratches /ulcerations. It is a stain which can remain on the cornea if damaged. A check up would be ideal in her case. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation (where you can post pictures ) if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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