Why Did My Dog Get Cataracts? Is It Treatable?

Canine cataracts can be a bit of a scary thing because let's face it: our dogs are our children, and the thought of them losing something so integral such as sight can be both a devastating and depressing pill to swallow. 

 

As pet parents, we want to do everything we can to increase the lifespan and quality of our pets lead, but as time passes, age-related maladies will make that once pleasant journey with your companion more turbulent. But with a strong heart and a commitment to your dog, a condition like cataracts can be managed and your dog can still live a high-quality and cherished life. 

 

What Are Canine Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common condition in dogs and may occur at any age. They are defined as opacification of the lens of the eye which may ultimately lead to an inability for a dog’s eyes to receive light, effectively rendering them blind. 

 

Just like with humans, this condition becomes more common as our companions age. One day you might notice your companion’s eye has a cloudy tint to it, and next a full-on cloud of white snow where your dog’s glistening eyes used to be. This is due to proteins in your dog’s eyes beginning to connect together. Over time, these proteins will progressively spread and clump together, creating a cloudy aspect over your pup’s eye. 

 

Cataracts can be unpredictable. In some cases, your dog’s cataracts may be a slow progression towards blindness, but in other dogs, cataracts can take their vision by storm, resulting in sudden blindness. 

 

What Causes Canine Cataracts?

In brief, cataracts can be a genetic inheritance from either the mother or the father. There is a tendency for certain breeds to have a predisposition towards developing. Asking your veterinarian about the risks your dog may have later in life is ideal for early preparation and prevention. Additionally, cataracts can result from injuries that affect the eye via inflammation disturbing the delicate ocular ecosystem of your pet’s eyes.

Diabetes Mellitus, also known as sugar diabetes may also be a potential cause for cataract development in your dog. 

Ultimately, the cause of cataracts is usually out of our hands, but it’s important not to panic or despair when you notice your companion’s eyes begin to fog over. There are available treatments out there to both manage and treat your dog's cataracts. These treatments range from surgical removal of the ocular film to steroid eye drops to help prevent inflammation and irritation caused by the onset of cataract development.

 

We’ll Help Treat Your Dog’s Cataracts at Eldorado Animal Clinic

Your dog is a member of the family and our team at Eldorado Animal Clinic is ready to take the best care of them. We have been serving the community for many years, so we are fully equipped to evaluate your dog’s condition, diagnose their issue, and provide you with a plan to get them feeling better. Each member of our team is fully committed to ensuring your pup’s health, as they know how much they mean to you. Contact us today or visit our website for more information.