Cataracts in Dogs: Causes, Types, and Symptoms

What are canine cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes opaque, leading to a progressive loss of vision. In dogs, cataracts can have multiple causes, such as genetics, advanced age, metabolic diseases like diabetes, or even ocular trauma. Cataracts in dogs, as in humans, can progress slowly over the years or develop suddenly, though the latter is less common.

Types of cataracts in dogs

Incipient

Incipient cataracts are the initial stage of the disease. In this phase, only a small part of the lens may be opaque, and the dog's vision is usually not severely affected. However, in these early stages, it is important to monitor their progression, in case of rapid development or a significant underlying illness. 

The most common causes of incipient cataracts in dogs are: 

- Genetics: Some breeds have a genetic predisposition to developing cataracts.

- Metabolic diseases: Conditions like diabetes can lead to early onset of cataracts. 

- Age: Cataracts are more common in older dogs, just as in humans.

- Ocular trauma: An injury or infection in the eye can trigger the formation of cataracts.

- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain essential nutrients can cause the development of cataracts.

Immature

We speak of immature cataracts when a larger portion of the lens is affected. The dog's vision begins to be impaired, and you might notice them being more cautious in unfamiliar or dimly lit environments.

Mature

Mature cataracts involve complete opacity of the lens, which is very limiting for the dog, who may be able to perceive light but will not distinguish anything. This stage is easy to identify, as the dog's eye will typically appear whitish.

Hypermature

A hypermature cataract in dogs is an advanced stage of cataracts where the lens of the eye is completely opaque and becomes damaged to the point of disintegration, releasing proteins into the eye that will harm it, causing inflammation and other more serious diseases such as glaucoma.

How to know if my dog has cataracts? Diagnosis

Sometimes detecting cataracts at an early stage is quite difficult, but it is important to detect them early, especially if there is a causative disease. In that case, it must be diagnosed and treated to significantly improve the outcome. If you have ever wondered how to know if your dog has cataracts, here are some tips you can follow to assess if your dog might be suffering from them:

- Slight change in eye color: You might notice a slight whitish color or a small spot in the eye, which may not always be visible. Observe them from different angles of light, as sometimes cataracts are not in the center of the eye.

- Cautious behavior: If you notice your dog might be uncomfortable in low light, seems more cautious when not at home, bumps into objects, or has difficulty finding their food or water bowl, it is advisable to take them to the vet for a check-up. 

- If they rub or scratch their eyes: If your dog frequently scratches or rubs their eyes, it usually means something is bothering them. This could be a sign of cataracts, although it is not the most common symptom. 

 

Diagnosis of cataracts in dogs

To diagnose cataracts, take your dog to the vet, who should perform a complete eye exam:

- Slit lamp examination: Allows for detailed visualization of the lens.

- Pupillary reflex tests: Evaluates how the pupils respond to light.

How a dog with cataracts sees: main symptoms

Cataracts in somewhat advanced stages affect dogs' vision. The main symptoms of how a dog with cataracts sees are usually: 

Blurred vision

The main symptom of cataracts in dogs is blurred vision. As the lens becomes more opaque, less light passes through it, acting as a barrier, which prevents the image from focusing properly on the retina, resulting in blurred vision.  When your dog has difficulty recognizing objects, such as their toys, bowl, other dogs, or familiar people, or even seems disoriented in new environments or dimly lit areas, it is indicative of blurred vision and possible cataracts.

Occasional double vision

Another symptom that can appear in a dog with cataracts is occasional double vision. This means, as its name suggests, that when light enters irregularly through the lens, it generates multiple images of the object on the retina. If this happens, you may notice your dog moving their head strangely when looking at objects, a symptom that they are trying to focus.

Difficulty seeing distant objects

Difficulty seeing distant objects is common in dogs with cataracts. This means, for example, that if you throw a ball far away, they may not be able to find it. 

Difficulty seeing at night

Difficulty seeing at night is very frequent and noticeable in dogs with cataracts. In low light, the pupil dilates to allow more light in, but since the lens is opaque, light does not enter correctly, causing blurred vision that would not occur in optimal light conditions. This is one of the first symptoms of cataracts in dogs.

Tripping over common objects

As cataracts evolve and mature, less light passes through the lens,  and this could cause your dog to start tripping over common objects at home, such as a chair, a door, etc. If you notice your pet bumping into furniture, walls, or even you, it could be a symptom that their vision is affected. Go to the vet for a proper evaluation. 

Solution to the problem: cataract surgery in dogs

Today, cataract surgery in dogs is the most effective solution for this disease. However, there are several points to consider before opting for surgery, as it is not possible in all dogs, and even today it is performed in few veterinary hospitals. 

What does the surgery involve?

Cataract surgery in dogs is the same as in humans; the lens is removed, and an artificial intraocular lens is implanted in its place. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

Preparation: Your dog will undergo a thorough pre-surgical examination to ensure they are in suitable health for the procedure.

Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered so that the dog is completely relaxed and feels no pain  or discomfort during the surgery.

Lens extraction: A small incision is made in the eye to access the lens. Using a technique called phacoemulsification, the lens is broken into small fragments and aspirated.

Lens implant: An artificial intraocular lens is inserted in place of the natural lens.

Closure and recovery: The incision is stitched, and an eye shield is placed to prevent any postoperative damage. 

 

What is the recovery like?

Recovery after cataract surgery in dogs is a time that requires a lot of attention, with special care:

- Medication: antibiotics and anti-inflammatories must be administered to prevent any postoperative complications.

- Use of an Elizabethan collar: it is advisable to place an Elizabethan collar after the operation to prevent them from scratching or rubbing the operated eye, and they will need to wear it for a while. Keep in mind that the dog feels discomfort in the eye, and their instinct is to rub it. 

- Rest and calm: Limit exertion and physical activity as much as possible in the initial moments to facilitate recovery as quickly as possible. Take them for regular walks, but avoid fields, gardens, and other dogs. 

- Follow-up visits: Scheduled veterinary visits after surgery are very important to monitor recovery and detect any possible complications.

When should you operate on your dog?

Deciding when to operate on your dog for cataracts is sometimes complicated, but it will depend on several factors:

- Severity of cataracts: If cataracts are severely affecting your dog's vision and quality of life, surgery will be the best option.

- General health: Your dog's general health condition is very important. Dogs with serious illnesses may not be good candidates for surgery.

- Age: Although surgery can be performed on elderly dogs, the risk of anesthesia increases with age. 

You should always consult your veterinarian to evaluate the risks and benefits and determine if your dog can be operated on for cataracts.

Are there alternatives?

Surgery is the effective solution for advanced cataracts in dogs, but in early stages or if surgery is not viable, there are some alternatives:

- Nutritional supplements: Some supplements can help delay the progression of cataracts.

- Topical medications: Eye drops that can reduce inflammation and improve ocular health.

- Treatment of underlying diseases: if there is a disease causing the cataract, you should treat it as soon as possible to prevent or delay cataracts in dogs. 

Is it worth operating on a dog for cataracts?

The decision to operate will depend on several factors, the first thing to consider is your dog's quality of life. But there are other considerations:

- Quality of life: If cataracts are severely affecting your dog's ability to enjoy their daily life, surgery can offer a significant improvement.

- Cost of the intervention: Cataract surgery is usually expensive,  and it is important to evaluate the costs of the surgery and postoperative care.

- Prognosis: Consult with your veterinarian about your dog's prognosis. They should perform a complete eye evaluation and check for any damage beyond the lens to assess the results of the surgery. 

Care for a dog after cataract surgery

- Use of prescribed medication: anti-inflammatory drops, to control pain and prevent infections. 

- Avoid activities that could harm the eye: it is advisable that your dog does not engage in any activity that could harm the eye during the first few weeks after surgery. Avoid walking in areas with tall grasses or branches at eye level, as well as interaction with other dogs, or rubbing their eyes. 

- Clean and dry eye: you can clean the eye with a saline solution. 

- Scheduled check-ups: regular check-ups with the veterinarian are very important to ensure everything is progressing correctly.

- You should be attentive to your dog to detect any signs of complication: if you notice inflammation, increased secretions or discharge, redness, or any change in your dog's behavior, go for a check-up with your veterinarian.

Treatment for cataracts in dogs

Cataract treatment varies depending on the cause and progression. Some options include:

- Regular check-ups: Your veterinarian can perform regular examinations to monitor the progression of cataracts. 

- Nutritional supplements: These can help delay the progression of cataracts.

- Treatment of underlying diseases: If the cataract is caused by a disease like diabetes, it is very important to control the disease to delay the progression of cataracts. 

- Surgery: In early stages, surgery is usually not indicated, but if the cataract progresses and affects your dog's mobility, cataract surgery in dogs is the best option.:

Prevention of cataracts in dogs

It is important to take precautions to reduce the risk of developing cataracts in dogs:

- Balanced diet: An adequate diet with all essential nutrients prevents deficiencies that can cause cataracts.

- Disease control: Maintain strict control of diseases, such as diabetes.

- Avoid ocular trauma: Prevent your dog from suffering blows or eye infections.

Measures to help a dog with cataracts

Cataract surgery in dogs is an effective option that can significantly restore your dog's vision, but if surgery is not indicated due to their age or general health, you can apply some measures to help your dog adapt to vision loss:

- Keep furniture arrangement constant: Avoid changing the furniture arrangement at home so your dog does not get disoriented.

- Use sensory cues: Use different smells or textures to help your dog navigate.

- Avoid hazards: Make sure there are no dangerous objects in your dog's path.

Understanding how a dog with cataracts sees will allow you to provide the necessary care and support, as well as be better prepared to recognize symptoms and consider appropriate treatment options to improve their quality of life. With proper care and a safe environment, your dog can continue to enjoy a happy and healthy life even with cataracts.