Cataracts in dogs are, in simple terms, a clouding of the lens in the eyes say vet Christies Beach. Clear sight occurs when beams of light travel to the retina, and after an image is transmitted to the brain, the dog sees it. However, sometimes the cells in a dog’s lens will become damaged, and this causes the lens to fog or cloud. As the disease progresses, images get foggier, and eventually, blindness is possible. A dog may be born with the tendency to develop cataracts or the condition may just develop in time. In either case, one or both eyes may be affected. Because of the potential seriousness of this disease, it is extremely important to be aware of the symptoms and signs of cataracts in dogs.
How are cataracts detected in dogs?
The dog’s owner should take note of any change in the dog’s eye colour. Any fading or clouding of colour is not normal in one or both eyes. In addition, it is important to know that milky white eyes or blue eyes with gray spots are serious signs that something is wrong, and a visit to the veterinarian is imperative. The doctor will determine if the change in eye colour or the appearance of cloudiness occurred because of an injury, an infection, a disease or normal aging. Symptoms that appear in younger or juvenile dogs are generally hereditary. Both kinds are treatable.
How are cataracts in dogs treated?
When the dog owner first notices an abnormality in the eyes, an immediate visit to the primary veterinarian is essential. The doctor will determine the seriousness of the situation, and it may be determined that a veterinary ophthalmologist that specializes in eye diseases may be necessary. However, in all cases, the only effective treatment is surgery. Extraction and implantation of artificial lenses may be necessary. Prior to the surgical procedure, the veterinarian administers an electroretinogram to find out the extent of damage and the course of treatment. In addition, the veterinarian will need to know if the dog has progressive retinal atrophy, which is a hereditary eye disease.
What is the prognosis?
The good news is that nearly all operations are successful if the veterinarian is consulted at the first sign of eye discoloration, inflammation, or obvious vision problems. Once the veterinarian analyzes whether the stage of cataracts in dogs is initial, immature or mature, treatment will begin.
Dog owners should remember that cataracts are always serious, and they always require professional intervention. Contacting the veterinarian at the first sign of trouble is the best way to solve a dog's medical issues.