White dog with cataracts smiling while outside

Cataracts are a common cause of vision loss, often affecting older pets but also seen in younger dogs, particularly those with diabetes.

Cataracts are commonly confused with another condition in older dogs – known as nuclear sclerosis. In older dogs, the lens of the eye may take on a bluish or greyish colour and many owners believe this is a cataract.

However, a simple eye examination usually provides the necessary reassurance. Nuclear sclerosis is part of normal ageing, vision is preserved, and no specific treatment is needed – your vet will be able to differentiate the two conditions and advise you accordingly.

What Are Cataracts in Dogs?

Cataracts in dogs are a clouding of the lens of the eye, which can interfere with your pet’s ability to see clearly. The condition may affect one or both of a dog’s eyes and can range from mild to severe.

Dog cataracts are often compared to the human equivalent, although there are some differences in how the disease develops and is treated in canines. 

The lens of a dog’s eye works similarly to a camera lens, focusing light onto the retina (at the back of the eye) so the dog can see clearly. When the lens becomes cloudy due to cataracts, it blocks the passage of light, leading to poor vision or even blindness. Cataracts can develop due to aging, genetics, or health conditions such as diabetes mellitus.

What Causes Cataracts in Dogs?

Canine cataracts can develop for several reasons, and identifying the underlying cause helps to plan the best course of action. Four of the most common causes are:

  1. Diabetes
  2. Breed type
  3. Trauma or injury
  4. Glaucoma

1. Diabetic Cataracts

One of the most common causes of cataracts in dogs is diabetes mellitus. Dogs with diabetes are particularly prone to developing cataracts, often at a young age. In these cases, the cataracts develop rapidly and can lead to total blindness if left untreated.

2. Genetic Factors

Certain dog breeds have a genetic predisposition to developing cataracts. These cataracts may appear in young dogs, often as a congenital issue. Breeders should be aware of genetic risks and avoid breeding dogs with a history of cataracts.

Common breeds affected include:

3. Trauma or Injury

Cataracts in dogs can also be caused by injury to the eye, disease affecting the retina (back of the eye), severe inflammation within the eye, as a result of poisonings or nutritional imbalances. Anything that damages the lens can lead to the formation of cataracts. In these cases, the cataract may appear suddenly after the injury.

4. Glaucoma

Cataracts can also be associated with glaucoma (increased pressure within the eyeball).

What Are the Signs of Cataracts in Dogs?

Recognising the signs of cataracts in dogs is essential to seeking timely treatment. Some dogs may develop cataracts gradually, while in others, they may appear more suddenly. The most common signs include:

  • Cloudy eyes: the most obvious symptom of a cataract in dogs is a cloudy or opaque appearance to the eye.
  • Changes in behaviour: if your dog is hesitant to walk, bumping into furniture, or showing signs of confusion, it could be due to vision loss from cataracts.
  • Eye redness or discharge: inflammation in the eye can sometimes accompany cataracts, leading to redness or discharge.
  • Difficulty navigating: your dog may struggle to navigate familiar environments or hesitate to jump or climb stairs.

If you notice any of these signs or changes in normal behaviour, it's important to consult a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment for cataracts in dogs.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Cataracts in Dogs

Your vet will perform a thorough eye examination. Ophthalmic examination involves looking at the structures of your dog’s eye with a handheld ophthalmoscope. Your vet may wish to send your pet to see a veterinary ophthalmologist, a specialist who has additional equipment and specialist knowledge to diagnose and treat canine eye problems. 

Once your dog has been diagnosed with cataracts, your vet will discuss treatment options. There are different approaches depending on the severity of the cataract and the health of your dog.

For severe cataracts that impair vision, cataract surgery for dogs is often the most effective treatment. The surgical procedure involves removing the cloudy lens and, in most cases, replacing it with an artificial lens. The operation is called phacoemulsification and is typically performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Most dogs recover well after surgery and can regain their vision, though the procedure is complex and carries some risks. Your dog’s age and overall health will determine if they’re a good candidate for cataract surgery. The procedure can be expensive, so be sure to discuss costs with your vet in advance.

Not all cases of cataracts require surgery. In some cases, especially with mild cataracts or when surgery is not an option, your vet may recommend just monitoring the cataract, to see whether surgery is warranted at all. There is no specific cataract medication for dogs, but some medications can help to manage inflammation in the eye.

Can You Prevent Cataracts in Dogs?

While some causes of cataracts are unavoidable, such as genetics, there are steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk. Regular vet check-ups and eye exams can catch cataracts early, especially in breeds prone to the condition.

If your dog’s cataracts are caused by diabetes mellitus, managing their diabetes is essential to preventing the cataracts from worsening. Regular blood sugar monitoring and insulin administration can help slow the progression of the cataracts.

Cataracts in dogs can significantly impact their quality of life, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, many dogs can maintain or regain their vision. If you suspect your dog has cataracts, consult your vet as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. With proper care, you can help ensure your dog enjoys a happy, healthy life, free from the challenges of impaired vision.

Everypaw Dog Insurance

Everypaw's Dog Insurance comes with 24/7 unlimited access to vets and vet nurses that can help with your pet's health, care, nutrition and behaviour. So you can rest assured your pup will be well looked after.

Get a quote

 

Content provided from Vetstream's Vetlexicon Canis – www.vetlexicon.com/canis

Vetlexicon is the world’s largest peer-reviewed online clinical reference source. All our content is written and peer-reviewed by over 1,000 of the world’s leading veterinarians, ensuring relevance, accuracy and quality.

;