Dog Cataracts, Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

What are Dog Cataracts?

This disorder involves a break down of the lens fibers within the eye. As a result, the dog’s vision can become blurred or cloudy. Furthermore, there are different types of this condition such as:

• Congenital : are present at birth and typically found in both eyes. This type may or may not be inherited.


• Developmental: typically develop early in the dog’s life. May be inherited or caused by a separate condition such as an infection.


• Senile: typically develop later in the dog’s life (normally pass the age of 6).


• Inherited: obviously, this type is genetic or passed on from the parents.

Symptoms

Signs of this disorder are quite easy to notice. Typically, the dog’s eye lens will appear to have a white or hazy film covering part of it as shown below.

Causes

As mentioned earlier, causes of this disorder depends on the type. Review the “What are Dog Cataracts?” section.

Treatment and Prevention

The only treatment for this disorder is to have the lens surgically removed. This procedure has become more common with fewer setbacks. It is recommended that you consult with your vet when considering this procedure. Your vet will have information regarding the different techniques of this type of surgery and will direct you toward the best possible solution.

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