What is cataract in dogs?
Cataract is a common condition in dog eyes that affects the lens. Normally, the lens is clear and allows light to pass to the back part of the eye, called retina.
In dogs with cataracts, the lens develops cloudiness or opacity that blocks the passage of light. Cataracts can vary in severity, ranging from small opacities with minimal effect in dogs’ vision, to complete cloudiness resulting in complete blindness.
Why is breed a risk factor for cataracts in dogs?
Breed plays a very important role in the development of dog cataracts. Dogs of certain breeds can be affected earlier in life with cataract or have faster progression. Knowing which breeds are at high risk, can help owners seek help early in the disease’s process to manage and preserve their dog’s vision.
Certain dog breeds are genetically predisposed in developing cataracts. This means that specific genes in some breeds have either been proven or are suspected to be involved in cataract formation. In these breeds, cataracts may occur much earlier in life than typical age-related ones, sometimes even in puppies or young adults, and can significantly affect vision from a young age.
Similarly to many other diseases, cataracts in dogs can be inherited from parents to puppies. In some breeds, genetic defects can lead to cataract development. This does not always mean that the bitch or the dog will be suffering from cataracts at the time of the puppy’s birth.
As most of those genes are inherited with an autosomal recessive mode (which means that two copies of the same gene are needed for cataract to develop), the parents’ eyes might be healthy but some of their puppies still can develop cataracts, if they receive one “faulty” gene from each parent. This is much more common in specific breeds. In some breeds, genetic testing is available to identify carriers of genes associated with cataract development.
Which dog breeds are most susceptible to cataracts?
Many popular breeds in the UK can be affected by hereditary cataract. Some of these include the:
- Bichon Frise
- English/ American Cocker Spaniels
- French Bulldogs
- Labrador and Golden Retrievers
- Labradoodles
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Boston Terriers
- Border Terriers
- German Shepherds
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers
- West Highland
- White Terriers and many more.
How do cataracts affect vision in dogs?
The lens is normally clear allowing the light to pass to the back of the eye, called retina, that is responsible for dogs’ vision. People with cataracts report blurry vision or as if looking through a foggy window.
Similarly, dogs with cataracts have reduced vision. Initially, they might misjudge distances, steps, lose their confidence, and have difficulty locating or catching their toys and treats in the air.
Later, as the cataract progresses and leads to complete blindness, dogs will struggle to navigate, especially in unfamiliar places, or bump into objects.
How to manage and prevent cataracts in at-risk breeds?
If your dog belongs to a high-risk breed, regular eye examinations from your primary care vets are important to ensure the health of its eyes.
If there are any concerns regarding your dog’s vision or early signs of cataracts are suspected from your primary care vets, referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist is required.
There, with specialist equipment, the extent of the cataract will be assessed and recommend the appropriate treatment. Cataract diagnosis and monitoring is better to occur at early stages, as intervention at the correct time is crucial for optimal vision outcome.
If you are worried about your dog’s cataracts, we are here for you. Request an appointment and get in touch with one of our specialised ophthalmologists.
Also, feel free to explore our prices. Your pet’s health is in good hands!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can mixed-breed dogs get cataracts?
Yes, any dog can develop cataract.
2. Are some types of cataracts preventable or reversible?
Unfortunately, the development or progression of cataract cannot be prevented with medication or drops. However, the cataract can be extracted surgically.
3. How can breeders reduce the risk of inherited cataracts?
Reputable breeders will consider an eye test (which we carry out at our clinic) for their dogs prior to breeding, which will reduce the risk of inherited cataract in certain breeds.