Dog Cataracts - Diagnosing And Treating This Eye Problem

Dog cataracts are fairly common, especially in older dogs. Just like in people, age plays a big role in this eye problem. But they can effect pets of all ages and can also be caused by some a trauma, infection or toxin.

Dog cataracts develop when the normal procedure that keeps the eye moist fails to perform correctly. The lens loses it's transparency and as a result, vision is lost as well. Often times the eye will look like it has a film on it. But you need to be careful not to confuse it with the normal changes in a dog's eyes. Usually when a dog gets to be about 6 years old, sclerosis takes place, which gives the eye a milky appearance. Unlike cataracts, this will not effect your pet's vision.

Types Of Dog Eye Cataracts

Actually there are 3 types of cataracts, but each one has the same effect and the treatment is the same for all of them as well. Congenital cataracts are there from birth and can be inherited or caused by some sort of infection. Developmental cataracts can also be inherited or perhaps caused by some form of eye trauma. This type occurs earlier in life. And finally, the most common form is senile cataracts. These occur in older dogs, usually over the age of six.

You will need to see your vet to confirm whether or not your dog has cataracts. Sometimes he will prescribe an ointment or drops to halt the development or even cure the problem. One such drop is called Nu-Eyes. These have been shown to be somewhat effective in reducing or even eliminating dog eye cataracts. But results can be slow, taking 4 months to up to a year to work. And in other cases they may not work at all.

Another product worth looking into is Pet Vision Lubricating & Cataract Eye Drops 8ml. Several people we know have reported good results with this.

Dog Cataracts Surgery

Generally surgery is the best way to correct the problem. It's the same operation doctors do on people with the problem. But surgery is not always the right choice and it's a decision you'll have to make. If your pet's vision is still adequate or if he is very old, this may not be the best choice. If however your dog is still young and his vision problems seem to be affecting his normal and daily enjoyment of living, surgery could be your best option. The good news is that it is typically a very successful operation and is also very low risk. The bad news is that it is somewhat expensive.

If you think surgery is the right choice for your pet, try to get it done as soon as possible. There is a point where the cataracts are too far developed for surgery to be performed.

What happens during the surgery again is the same thing doctors do on people. They will remove the cataract lens and replace it with a new lens for the eye. The biggest difference is that dogs don't have near the number of available replacement lenses. That means that while the operation is generally successful, the success rate is still somewhat lower than it is for people. Be sure to discuss the surgical option in depth with your vet before proceeding.