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.
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.
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.
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. Below is a quick summary of their differences.
Features | Cataracts | Nuclear Sclerosis |
|---|---|---|
Appearance | Solid white, opaque, or dense spots; can form anywhere | Faint, blue-gray, and often translucent; located in the center of the pupil |
Impact on Vision | Mild to complete blindness | Minimal vision loss |
Causes | Genetics, diabetes, eye injuries, eye conditions, age, nutritional deficiencies, toxins | Age |
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 impair vision and affect their entire lifestyle.
How Are Cataracts in Dogs Diagnosed?
We’ll start with an ocular exam and proceed with laboratory tests.
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. Through this, we can visualize the lens and check for any opacity.
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 perform other tests specific to the conditions we want to rule out. This includes:
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. This may rule out glaucoma.
Eye Staining. Eye staining tests can be helpful in assessing trauma-related eye issues, including canine cataracts. A special dye and blue light will be used to highlight any damage to the cornea.
Ocular Ultrasound. This test is performed when the cataract is so dense that the back of the dog’s eye can’t be seen. An ocular ultrasound helps us determine if the retina is still attached and functional.
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, which is a common cause of cataracts in dogs.
How to Treat Cataracts in Dogs?
Treatment for canine cataracts focuses on surgery and medical management.
Surgery
Cataract surgery for dogs is by far the most effective treatment for this condition. The most common procedure done is phacoemulsification.
This surgical technique uses 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 focusing light onto the retina.
Phacoemulsification has a high success rate, around 80-90%. Dogs may live normal lives after recovery, which takes about 6-8 weeks, with strict rest and recovery during the first 2 weeks. This will require prescription eye drops, E-collars, and follow-up checkups.
Non-Surgical Management
If an ERG determines that the dog is unsuitable for surgery, non-surgical management 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 a Dog Live Comfortably With Cataracts?
Dogs can live comfortably, especially if the cataracts are small or affect only one eye. The early stages usually do not present with any vision problems. Also, dogs rely heavily on their other senses, which helps them out a lot. However, management is needed to prevent complications.
This means that even with partial or complete blindness, they can still be comfortable, especially in a convenient home layout. Dogs that cannot be treated with surgery will require more attentive home care.
Vet Tips: How to Prevent Cataracts in Dogs
Dogs and cataracts can’t be entirely separated, 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
Book wellness exams at the clinic. 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 that spend time outdoors, it’s important to protect their eyes from potential 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
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. Plan your pet’s meals with our pet nutritionists.
“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.
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