Cataracts in dogs

What is cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of a dog's eye that causes the dog's vision to become blurred. If the cataract is small, it will not affect vision much, but cataracts need to be monitored because the thicker and denser they become, the more likely the cataract is to cause blindness.

What causes cataracts to develop?

Cataracts can develop as a result of disease, eye injury, or age, but the most common causes are hereditary conditions. Cataracts can be present from birth or develop early in life - between the first and third years of a dog's life. Cataracts are also common with diabetes.

How can I tell if my dog is developing cataracts?

If your dog's eyes appear cloudy or bluish-gray, you should take him to the vet for an examination. You should be wary, although it is normal for a dog's lens to become cloudy or gray as he ages. This condition is called nuclear sclerosis and does not threaten your dog's vision in the same way that cataracts do. In addition, nuclear sclerosis usually does not require treatment. However, any cloudiness in your dog's eye is a sign for you to take your dog to the vet.

What happens if cataracts are left untreated?

An untreated cataract can “dislocate,” or slip out of the tissues that hold it in place, becoming loose and floating inside the eye, where it can lodge and block the natural drainage of fluid. This can lead to glaucoma, which can lead to permanent blindness. Cataracts can also begin to dissolve, causing deep, painful inflammation of the eye.

Which dogs are more prone to developing cataracts?

Although cataracts can develop in dogs of any breed and age, they most commonly occur in cocker spaniels, poodles, miniature schnauzers, terriers, and golden retrievers.

How is cataract diagnosed?

A preliminary eye examination by a veterinarian will already help you determine whether you are dealing with a cataract or another condition that causes cloudiness in the eye. You should then consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist to determine the extent of the cataract and what steps you should take to treat the problem.

How can I help my dog maintain his vision?

In most cases, cataracts cannot be prevented, but there are steps you can take to ensure that your dog's vision is preserved, especially if he has a medical condition such as diabetes.

• Examine your dog's eyes regularly.
• Take your dog to the vet if his eyes appear cloudy or bluish-gray.
• Take your dog to the vet if you suspect he has vision problems.
• If possible, find out the medical history of your dog's parents, as cataracts are often hereditary.
• Be aware of any conditions your dog has that may lead to the development of cataracts, such as diabetes or eye trauma.

What are the approaches to treating cataracts?

Vision lost due to cataracts can often be restored with surgery. A veterinary ophthalmologist will surgically remove the lens and replace it with a plastic or acrylic lens. Cataract surgery generally has a good success rate, but your veterinarian will need to determine if your dog is a good candidate for surgery. This procedure also requires long-term post-operative care.

Note: If your dog suffers from a condition such as diabetes, treating it will reduce the likelihood of developing cataracts.

How should I care for my pet after cataract surgery?

After surgery, your dog will need to wear a protective collar until the eyes heal. You will need to provide a calm environment for your dog, and your dog will need eye drops several times a day for several weeks.

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