Introduction
The term “cataract” refers to any opacity of the lens of the eye. Dogs of either gender can develop cataracts, and certain breeds are especially at risk. Cataracts are more common in older animals but can be present at birth or develop very early in life.
How Cataracts Affect Dogs
Regardless of the cause of cataracts, the clinical signs are the same. Dogs with cataracts have cloudy pupils (or spots in the pupil) and impaired sight, in one or both eyes. Cataracts can appear suddenly or slowly. Depending on the severity of the cataract, affected dogs will have vision problems ranging from mild to complete blindness. Some of the signs associated with reduced eyesight include a high-stepped walk, unsure footing, tripping over or bumping into objects, walking into walls, misjudging distances and not recognizing people. Cataracts are normally painless, but they can cause permanent eye damage if left untreated.
Causes of Cataracts in Dogs
Cataracts typically have a strong genetic component. Other contributing causes include nutritional deficiencies, low blood calcium levels, exposure to toxins, diabetes mellitus, radiation, electric shock and blunt or penetrating trauma. Cataracts can occur spontaneously for no known reason.
Prevention of Cataracts
The only way to reduce the prevalence of cataracts is to remove affected animals from any breeding program. Even this will not guarantee that future generations will be free of the condition.
Special Notes
While cataracts always affect a dog’s vision, they do not affect its health. Most dogs adjust to their vision deficiencies extremely well. Surgical treatment for cataracts is highly successful, and the prognosis for dogs with cataracts is excellent if they are identified and treated early.