Causes of cataracts
There are multiple causes of cataracts, and one of the most common is disease. Dogs that suffer from diabetes are also likely to have cataracts. Although old age is another common cause, young dogs between the age of one and three also develop cataracts.
Cataracts can also be an inherited trait. Cocker spaniels, poodles, miniature schnauzers, terriers, and golden retrievers are more likely to develop cataracts than other breeds.
Signs of cataracts
There are many signs that a dog has cataracts. Cloudy or bluish-gray eyes are one sign. However, it doesn’t always mean the dog has cataracts. Older dogs tend to develop cloudy eyes as they age. This condition is known as nuclear sclerosis and usually does not require treatment.
Owners should let a vet determine whether their dog has cataracts or nuclear sclerosis. Dogs with cataracts bump into things, and they also become hesitant about climbing stairs. Finally, they often appear to be squinting.
Untreated cataracts
If untreated, cataracts can lead to serious issues for dogs. They may experience pain from red, inflamed eyes. If the cataract breaks away, or luxates from the tissue holding it in place, it floats freely around the eye.
Glaucoma may result if the free-floating cataract settles and blocks fluid drainage. Glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. This is especially true for dogs with cataracts related to diabetes mellitus.
Diagnosing cataracts
Only a vet can diagnose cataracts. Owners should take their dogs to their veterinarian as soon as they notice cloudiness or discoloration of the eye. The vet determines whether the dog has cataracts or another condition, such as nuclear sclerosis.
If the vet diagnoses cataracts, he or she refers the owner to a veterinary ophthalmologist. This specialist determines how bad the cataract is and develops the treatment plan. In cases where the cataract is small and does not grow, surgery is unnecessary.
Cataract surgery
If the vet has to perform surgery, he or she uses an ultrasonic hand piece to emulsify, or break down, the lens. The vet then removes the emulsified lens from the eye and replaces it with an artificial lens.
The vet might also implant an intraocular lens to prevent farsightedness. Cataract surgery has more than a 95 percent success rate. If the surgery is successful, the dog will have normal vision.
Post-surgery
Generally, cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure with the dog going home the same day. The vet does keep the dog at the hospital for a short observation period to ensure no complications occur.
Once at home, owners may have to apply eye drops several times a day for a few weeks. The dog must also wear an Elizabethan, or protective collar, until the eye heals. This keeps the dog from scratching or rubbing at the healing eye.
Preserving a dog’s vision
Usually owners cannot prevent cataracts from developing in their dog’s eyes. However, owners can take steps to preserve a dog’s vision. They should examine their dog’s eyes regularly. If a dog has cloud eyes or appears to have trouble seeing, the owner should immediately take the dog to a vet.
If possible, owners should learn about the medical history of their dog’s parents because cataracts can be inherited. Owners should routinely have a vet check their dog’s eyes if the dog has a disease such as diabetes or has suffered an eye trauma.