Cataracts in dogs are a relatively common occurrence but do need to be taken care of to avoid eventual blindness. In this blog post, our New Hope vets explain the causes, signs, and surgery required to treat cataracts in dogs.
What are cataracts in dogs?
Cataracts in dogs are a common eye condition characterized by the clouding of the lens within the eye. The lens is normally transparent, allowing light to pass through and focus on the retina, which enables clear vision. However, when a cataract develops, the lens becomes opaque, obstructing the passage of light and potentially causing blindness.
Cataracts can vary in severity, ranging from small, localized opacities to large, complete opacification of the lens. They can develop in one or both eyes, appearing overnight or progressing gradually.
Chronic cataracts cause the lens to continuously degenerate over time, triggering chronic inflammatory changes around it. This can result in severe pain and unmanageable secondary issues in the eye that can only be treated with enucleation (eye removal surgery). While cataracts can occur in dogs of any age, they are more commonly seen in older dogs.
How can I tell if my dog might have cataracts?
The signs of cataracts in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Cloudy or bluish appearance in the eye: This is the most obvious sign of cataracts. The affected eye may have a cloudy or bluish tint, obscuring the normal coloration of the eye.
- Changes in behavior: If your dog is experiencing vision loss due to cataracts, you may notice changes in their behavior, such as bumping into objects, reluctance to navigate unfamiliar areas, or hesitance to jump or climb.
- Increased clumsiness: Vision impairment from cataracts can lead to clumsiness or difficulty judging distances, causing your dog to stumble or fall more frequently.
- Rubbing or pawing at the eyes: If your dog is experiencing discomfort or irritation from cataracts, they may paw at their eyes or rub them against furniture or the ground.
- Squinting or blinking: Dogs with cataracts may squint or blink excessively in an attempt to clear their vision or alleviate discomfort.
- Changes in the eye's appearance: In addition to cloudiness, you may notice other changes in the affected eye, like redness, inflammation, or tearing.
- Difficulty seeing in low light: Cataracts can impair your dog's vision, particularly in dim or low-light conditions, leading to difficulty seeing in the dark or at night.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it's important to consult with your veterinarian promptly. Early detection and treatment of cataracts can help preserve your dog's vision and overall quality of life.
What causes cataracts in dogs?
Several factors can contribute to the development of cataracts in dogs, including genetics, age-related changes, diabetes mellitus, nutritional deficiencies, inflammation, trauma to the eye, or exposure to certain medications or toxins.
How are cataracts in dogs diagnosed?
Diagnosing cataracts in dogs typically involves a comprehensive eye examination performed by a veterinarian. During the examination, the vet will use various tools and techniques to assess the dog's eyes and look for signs of cataracts.
One of the primary methods used to diagnose cataracts is through direct visualization of the lenses using an ophthalmoscope. This instrument allows the vet to examine the clarity of the lenses and detect any opacities or cloudiness associated with cataracts.
In addition, the vet may also perform tests to evaluate the dog's vision and assess the extent of the cataract.
These tests may include:
- Schirmer Tear Test: This test measures the production of tears to assess the dog's tear production, which can be affected by cataracts.
- Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside the dog's eyes, which can help detect conditions such as glaucoma that may be associated with cataracts.
- Electroretinography (ERG): This test evaluates the function of the retina and can help determine the impact of cataracts on the dog's vision.
- Ultrasound: In some cases, ultrasound imaging may be used to visualize the internal structures of the eye and assess the severity of cataracts, especially if they are difficult to see with traditional methods.
How are cataracts in dogs treated?
If your dog is diagnosed with cataracts, the vet will discuss treatment options and recommendations based on the dog's age, overall health, and the extent of the cataracts.
Surgery may sometimes be recommended to remove cataracts, replace the cataracts with artificial lenses and restore vision.
Alternatively, if the cataracts are mild or in the early stage, your veterinarian may recommend medical management to slow down their progression. This management may include topical medications or supplements aimed at supporting eye health.
Early diagnosis of eye conditions like cataracts is important where your dog's vision is concerned. Once your dog becomes a senior, regular, twice-yearly wellness exams will allow your vet the opportunity to check your dog's eyes for signs of developing cataracts and recommend treatment before they become more serious. Without treatment, cataracts can develop into glaucoma.
In dogs diagnosed with cataracts that are good candidates for surgery, the sooner the surgery can be done, the better your dog's prognoses is likely to be.
If your dog isn't a candidate for surgery, they may lose their vision depending on other factors. However, your pooch can still enjoy a very good quality of life. With a little practice, your dog will soon adapt and navigate their environment at home by using their other senses to guide them.
If your dog requires additional diagnostic testing or treatment for cataracts, you may be referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist.
Can dogs have cataract surgery?
People often wonder if all dogs are candidates for cataract surgery, and if cataracts can be removed from a dog's eyes.
It is often possible to surgically remove canine cataracts and replace them with artificial lenses. However, not all dogs with cataracts are suitable candidates for this procedure. Cataract surgery may not be an option for your dog if they already have a detached retina, retinal degeneration, or severe inflammation in either eye.
Your Dog's Cataract Surgery
You'll typically be asked to drop your dog off at our animal hospital either the morning of the surgery or the night before, although each veterinary hospital will differ in how they operate. While diabetic dogs will need extra pre-operative care, your veterinarian will provide specific instructions on how to feed and care for your dog in the days leading up to the surgery. Follow your veterinarian's instructions precisely.
Pre-Surgical Testing
An ultrasound will be done while your dog is under anesthesia in order to look for problems like a detached retina or a ruptured (bursting) lens before the surgery even starts. It will also be confirmed that your dog's retina is functioning properly by performing an electroretinogram (ERG). Sadly, if these tests reveal any unanticipated problems, your dog might not be a candidate for cataract surgery.
Surgical Procedure
A general anesthetic will be used for cataract surgery. A muscle relaxant will also be given to your dog to help his eye sit in the correct position for the operation. Cataracts in dogs are removed using a procedure known as phacoemulsification. This procedure, which is similar to cataract surgery on humans, uses an ultrasonic device to break up and remove the cloudy lens from the dog's eye. After the cataract-affected lens is removed, an artificial lens implant (intraocular lens, or IOL) can be implanted in the eye to allow images to be focused clearly onto the retina.
Post-Surgery
Typically the vet performing your dog's ocular surgery will recommend that your dog stay overnight for monitoring, following cataract surgery. Intensive at-home aftercare will be required following surgery including the use of several types of eye drops, multiple times each day.
What are the risks associated with cataract surgery in dogs?
Every surgical procedure involving either humans or animals carries some level of risk. While complications from canine cataract surgery are rare, some complications veterinarians have observed include corneal ulcers and pressure elevations within the eye. It's critical to bring your dog in for a follow-up examination with the vet to help prevent complications from developing after the operation.
How much is cataract surgery for dogs?
The cost of cataract surgery for your dog can vary depending on the severity of your canine companion's eye condition, its age, and overall health. It's best to discuss pricing with your vet.
Your Dog's Vision After Cataract Surgery
Provided that the rest of the eye is in good working order, cataract surgery has a high success rate for dogs. Most dogs regain vision as soon as they recover from the procedure.
The long-term prognosis for your dog maintaining vision after surgery will depend on a variety of individual factors. Ask your vet about your dog's long-term prognosis and whether you can help your pup recover their vision.
Regardless of the treatment chosen, you may need to adjust your dog's lifestyle to accommodate its vision impairment. These adjustments can include modifying its environment to reduce hazards, using verbal cues to guide it, and providing extra support and reassurance.
It's important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog's individual needs. Of course, successful long-term outcomes are more likely with good post-operative care and regular visits to the veterinarian for eye examinations and monitoring.
Your Dog's Recovery Process After Surgery
The typical initial healing period after cataract surgery in dogs is approximately two weeks. During those two weeks, your dog must always wear an E-collar (Elizabethan cone) and be limited to leashed walks.
Several medications must also be administered to your dog during this time, including eye drops and oral medications. Following your veterinarian's instructions is critical to supporting successful outcomes regarding your dog's vision and eye health.
When you attend the two-week follow-up appointment, your dog's medications may be reduced. However, some dogs will need to remain on medication permanently if the cataract is associated with underlying health conditions such as diabetes or other metabolic disorders.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.