What does the palpebral reflex test?

The palpebral reflex tests the ability of the animal to blink when the corner of the eye is gently touched. This reflex is an important indicator of the functional status of the facial nerve and the sensory pathways involved in eyelid closure. When the area around the eyelid is stimulated, the blink response indicates that the nervous system is intact and functioning properly.

This reflex can be particularly useful in assessing a patient’s neurological status, as it helps determine whether the cranial nerves involved in this reflex pathway are operational. A normal response is a good sign of facial nerve integrity, while an absent reflex may suggest neurological issues that require further investigation.