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.
Key Takeaways
Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s normally clear lens, caused by genetics, diabetes, age, eye diseases and injuries, nutritional deficiencies, and toxins.
They’re diagnosed through ophthalmoscopy, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, ocular ultrasound, and other specific tests to rule out certain conditions.
Phacoemulsification is the most definitive form of treatment, with a success rate of 80-90%.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts in Dogs?
Dogs with cataracts are observed to have cloudy eyes, changes in pupil size, increased clumsiness, a reluctance to play and move, eye irritation, and anxiety.
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 worsens, affected dogs will become noticeably clumsy, often bumping into furniture and walls.
Reluctance to Move and Play. Some dogs may appear hesitant to move and play, 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. Other dogs may rub or paw at their eyes if they have other painful eye conditions.
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.
Additionally, there’s a possibility this condition could develop into other painful conditions.
What Are the Common Causes of Dog Cataracts?
The usual reasons why dogs get cataracts include genetics, diabetes, eye injuries or trauma, eye conditions, old age, and nutritional deficiencies.
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:
American Cocker Spaniel
Bichon Frises
Miniature Schnauzers
Boston Terriers
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is another leading cause. Dogs with high blood sugar levels experience excess glucose in the lens of the eye, where it is converted into sorbitol.
Sorbitol draws water in, causing the eyes to swell, rupture, and rapidly become cloudy. This results in cataract formation and often leads to blindness within months.
Age
Age is also a significant risk factor for canine cataracts. Dogs predisposed to this eye condition may develop the characteristic cloudy eyes around ages 1-5, while others may develop it later, around 8 years of age or later.
This occurs because of oxidative damage and metabolic changes within the lens over time. As they age, the natural lens proteins degrade, clump together, and block light.
Eye Diseases
Certain eye diseases can also contribute to cataract development. These include:
Uveitis. Chronic eye inflammation can alter the eye’s environment, interfering with the nutrition and metabolism of the lens. This can result in a cloudy or opaque appearance.
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 cause inflammation of the eye lens.
Eye Injuries and Trauma
Injuries and trauma to the eyes can damage the lens capsule and lead to fluid buildup, inflammation, and the leakage of lens proteins. This will eventually trigger the rapid structural changes in the lens, resulting in cataract formation. These can include puncture, scratches, or blunt force.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Improper nutrition, especially with young puppies, can lead to cataract formation. It occurs when these deficiencies lead to impaired protein synthesis, oxidative stress, and imbalances in essential minerals. Because of these, the lens proteins may clump and form opaque spots.
Toxins
Toxins may damage the delicate proteins and fibers within the dog’s eye lens. Examples may include ketoconazole and disophenol.
A potential challenge they may encounter is cataracts, an eye condition that blocks light from entering the retina. Because of this, affected dogs may experience vision problems that may eventually lead to complete blindness if left untreated.
In this blog, we're going to talk all about cataracts in dogs, from signs and causes to treatment and prevention.
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