Schirmer's test is used to determine if the patient’s eye is producing adequate amounts of tears.  This test is used to diagnose keratoconjunctivitis sicca, more commonly known as dry eye.

How It Works

Special paper strips are placed underneath the lower eyelid and then the eyes are closed. After one minute, the vet removes the strips and measures the amount of moisture with a ruler.

What Is It Used For?

The Schirmer tear test measures the amount of tears the pet produces in one minute.  A normal animal should manufacture between 13-25 millimeter of tears per minute.  A lower figure indicates the pet isn’t making enough tears.  Without adequate tears,  the pet can be predisposed to eye damage because the tears help protect the eyes by keeping them moist and lubricated.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), also known as dry eye, is a common problem that results from inadequate amounts of tear production. When the eyes are dry for an extended period of time, it results in irritation, inflammation, and eye pain.  This condition also puts the animal at risk of bacterial infections or other pathogens, and can lead to corneal ulceration and even loss of vision.   Determining if the eyes are producing enough tears is helpful when checking the health of the eye and also the vet decide if the pet can be treated with drops or if surgery is needed.

Benefits of Schirmer Eye Testing

Tears keep the eye moist and lubricated.   Without enough tears produced, dry eye occurs.  Extensive periods of dry eye can result in eye damage.  Early diagnosis of low tear production and also prompt treatment is important to preventing eye irritation and further damage.