Our dogs rely on their eyes for everything they do, including playing, eating, and chasing. Without these, they may struggle to interact with their surroundings and adapt to their lifestyle.
One potential eye problem our best friends can face is cataracts. Essentially, it's a condition that blocks light from reaching the retina, resulting in vision problems that can lead to complete blindness if left untreated.
In this blog, we're going to talk all about cataracts in dogs, from causes to treatment and prevention.
What’s the Difference Between Cataracts and Nuclear Sclerosis?
Cataracts and nuclear sclerosis are both eye conditions that cause the dog's eyes to appear cloudy. The main difference is in vision. While cataracts block a dog's vision, nuclear sclerosis does not. The latter is a normal age-related change that is not as concerning as cataracts.
On the other hand, cataracts are a far more serious problem that can affect their vision, impacting their entire lifestyle.
What Causes Cataracts in Dogs?
Lots of pet owners assume that this eye condition only happens to older dogs, but there are also other factors to consider. Here are the common causes:
Genetics
Genetics is a huge factor in a dog's susceptibility to cataracts. Some dogs are born with them, while others develop them later in life. Over time, the signs become more apparent as the condition progresses slowly.
Dog breeds with a relatively high risk include:
Bichon Frises
Miniature Schnauzers
Boston Terriers
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is another leading cause. Affected dogs have a significantly higher chance of cataracts due to increased blood sugar levels.
It happens when excess glucose enters the eye lens and is converted to sorbitol. This draws in water, causing it to swell and become cloudy, resulting in cataract formation.
Cases caused by diabetes often develop quickly, leading to complete blindness in just a couple of weeks or months.
Age
Age is also a significant risk factor for canine cataracts. Affected dogs typically show signs of cataract development at ages 4 and 5. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the dog's breed.
Cataracts caused by aging progress gradually and slowly. No immediate treatment is required, just consistent management until the time that surgery is needed.
Eye Diseases
Certain eye diseases can contribute to cataract development as well. These include:
Uveitis. Chronic eye inflammation can present cataracts as one of its complications.
Glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure caused by glaucoma can damage the retina and lens, potentially leading to canine cataracts.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy. PRA degenerates the retina. When this tissue breaks down, it can trigger the release of chemicals that result in eye lens inflammation.
Eye Injuries and Trauma
Injuries and trauma to the eyes can damage the lens and trigger the formation of cataracts. These can include puncture, scratches, or blunt force. This kind of damage can also result in uveitis, a condition that increases the risk even more.
Other Factors
While not as common as the others above, nutritional deficiencies and toxin exposure can potentially trigger cataracts in dogs. Puppies who don’t receive the right amount of nutrients can develop eye impairments and problems.
Additionally, long-term use of corticosteroids can also be a potential cause.
Common Dog Cataracts Symptoms
Changes in vision are to be expected with canine cataracts. These subtle signs can then progress to much clearer symptoms as the condition progresses. Here are common examples:
Cloudy, Bluish, or Gray Eyes. The most visible sign of cataracts is a cloudy or milky appearance in one or both eyes. This usually starts in the center of the lens and may look bluish, white, or gray.
Changes in Pupil Size. The pupils of affected dogs can appear dilated, and in some cases, they may even be uneven.
Clumsiness and Bumping Into Objects. As their vision starts to worsen, affected dogs will be noticeably clumsy, often bumping into furniture and walls.
Reluctance to Move and Play. Dogs with vision loss will have significantly reduced activity and willingness to play. They might even hesitate to move, especially at night, in dimly lit rooms, or unfamiliar spaces.
Eye Irritation and Redness. In some cases, the cataracts can cause pain, irritation, and redness.
Anxiety and Disorientation. Some dogs may feel anxious or disoriented because they have trouble seeing. This is common at night and in dim conditions.
Are Dogs in Pain With Cataracts?
Canine cataracts aren’t usually painful, as they just cause vision problems. However, other issues that contribute to this condition, such as uveitis, glaucoma, and injuries, can cause pain. You can notice this whenever your dog starts to squint or paw their eyes excessively.
Plus, there’s a chance of this condition developing other complications that can be painful for dogs. This includes inflammation and lens dislocation.
How Are Cataracts in Dogs Diagnosed?
Diagnosing dog cataracts will make use of a few methods, including:
Initial Eye Exam
Our pet ophthalmologists will perform a general physical exam and a close inspection of your dog’s eyes using an ophthalmoscope, a lighted tool. Based on our findings, we’ll decide on the next steps.
Slit Lamp Exam
A slit lamp exam uses a high-powered microscope that focuses a narrow beam of light into the eye. This shows us a magnified view of the cornea and lens, allowing us to assess the depth and density of the cataracts.
Other Possible Tests
We can also conduct other laboratory tests. This allows us to determine other possible conditions we can rule out, as well as other factors related to cataract development.
Tonometry. This test measures the pressure inside the eye, also known as intraocular pressure. After a few numbing drops, we use a specialized instrument to take a quick reading on the cornea.
Eye Staining. Eye staining tests can be helpful when dealing with trauma-related eye issues, including canine cataracts. A special dye and blue light will be used to highlight any damage to the cornea.
Electroretinography. An ERG determines whether the dog’s retina is functioning properly, rules out other eye conditions, and checks if the dog is capable of cataract surgery.
Blood Work. Blood tests can help us know more about your dog's health. They can also help us detect diabetes in dogs, which is a common cause of cataracts.
How Do You Treat Cataracts in Dogs?
The treatment process for canine cataracts will vary based on your dog's condition and the severity of this eye problem.
Surgical Treatment
Cataract surgery for dogs is by far the most effective treatment for this condition. The most common procedure done is phacoemulsification.
This surgical technique makes use of ultrasonic waves to break down the cloudy lens. Once these are destroyed, the fragments are carefully removed from the eyes. An artificial lens is then inserted to help restore your dog's vision by helping focus light into the retina.
Phacoemulsification has a high success rate, and dogs can live normal lives after a few weeks of recovery. This will include eye drops, protective cones, and several follow-up exams.
Non-Surgical Management
If an ERG reveals that the dog is unsuitable for surgery, then non-surgical management methods will be used. These include:
Anti-Inflammatory Eye Drops. These eye drops can be prescribed to provide relief and control the swelling from secondary conditions
Blood Sugar Control Medications. These medications help control your dog's blood sugar levels, helping manage diabetes.
Lifestyle Adjustments. Keeping the home safe with a consistent layout helps affected dogs navigate through.
Can Diet Help With Dog Cataracts?
Yes, diet can be good for supporting the eye health of dogs with cataracts. A high-quality diet for dogs filled with antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and lutein can reduce oxidative stress on the lens. It can also potentially delay the progression of canine cataracts.
However, do take note that this alone cannot cure the condition.
Can a Dog Live Comfortably With Cataracts?
Dogs can live comfortably, especially if these cataracts are small or only affect one eye. The early stages do not usually present any vision problems. Also, dogs rely heavily on their other senses, which helps them out a lot.
This means that even with partial or complete blindness, they can still be comfortable, especially in a convenient home layout. It just means that dogs affected with advanced cataracts that cannot be treated will require more attentive home care.
Vet Tips: How to Prevent Cataracts in Dogs?
Dogs and cataracts are two things that can’t be separated entirely, but there are ways to reduce the risk.
Manage Chronic Health Issues
Managing conditions such as diabetes is an effective way to prevent cataracts in dogs. This can be done through regular visits, specialized diets, and prescribed medications.
Schedule Eye Exams
Eye exams help our ophthalmologists check for any concerning signs before they worsen. Through this, we can preserve your dog's vision.
Protect Your Dog’s Eyes
For dogs who frequent the outdoors, it’s important to protect their eyes from possible injuries, especially in wooded and shrubby areas. We recommend having them play in a safe, fenced space or any indoor dog park.
Provide Nutritional Support
Eye health comes from balanced nutrition, especially in growing puppies. Supply your dog with rich sources of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E to support their eye health and development.
“A dog’s eyes help them stay connected to us and the world.”
- Dr. Nenad Misura
Final Thoughts
Cataracts in dogs are more common than most pet owners realize. They can hinder your dog’s activity and impair its vision. Fortunately, these can be treated and managed, especially when detected early.
Once you notice problems in your dog’s eyes, the most important thing you can do is take action and get them the care they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell how bad my dog's cataracts are?
Generally, you can tell it’s bad when your dog’s eyes have a cloudy haze in the pupil. You might also notice cues such as bumping into furniture, hesitance to run, and poor night vision.
Is it worth removing cataracts in dogs?
Yes, it’s worth removing cataracts in dogs. When treated, vision can be restored and pain can be alleviated. Plus, treatment also prevents several complications from happening. All of these can bring comfort to your dog, making them happy.
Can you fix cataracts in dogs without surgery?
No, surgery is the only proven way to restore the vision lost through cataracts. While some eye drops and supplements can help manage the inflammation and slow down the progression, they’re not full treatments.
How quickly do dogs go blind with cataracts?
The progression can be as quick as a few weeks or as slow as several years. It will depend on the underlying cause.
What foods help prevent cataracts in dogs?
These foods include eggs, leafy greens like kale and spinach, carrots, pumpkin, blueberries, broccoli, and fatty fish.
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