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Can a dog's eye ulcer become indolent if it doesn't heal properly?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Female | spayed | 7 years and 11 months old | 14.5 lbs

Hi can you answer me a question about eye ulcers ? A scratch becomes an ulcer , can it then turn into an indolent ulcer ? Or is an indolent ulcer completely different to a regular ulcer ? At a first diagnosis can you tell the difference between a regular superficial ulcer and the beginning of an indolent one ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 5th, 2018

Sure thing. An indolent ulcer is where the ulcer doesn't heal after topical eye ointment. It initially starts as an ulcer and then develops into an indolent ulcer. You cannot tell at first diagnosis if an ulcer is indolent or not, because it is dependent on the rate of healing. Indolent ulcers are more common in brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Pekingese, etc). Indolent ulcers often require a sx procedure called a grid keratotomy or autogenous serum (using the pets own serum) to allow them to heal properly. I hope this helps answer your question. Best wishes with your pet Lily. Take care!

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