Ocular Surgery in Small Mammals

Small mammal ocular surgery requires knowledge on species-specific anatomic challenges that demand refined microsurgical skills. Rabbits frequently require surgical treatment of nasolacrimal obstruction, Harderian gland prolapse, corneal ulcers, and cataracts, with phacoemulsification offering good outcomes for the later. Hystricomorph rodents often present with dental-related retrobulbar abscesses, nonhealing corneal ulcers, or cataracts requiring enucleation. Ferrets commonly undergo surgical management of conjunctival lesions, cataracts, and orbital masses. In rats, mice, and hamsters, globe removal procedures dominate due to small ocular dimensions and fragile vasculature. Across species, careful anesthesia, magnification, and hemostasis are essential for a successful outcome.