The lens of the dog’s eye is a clear structure located at the centre of the eye, within the pupil. Because of its location, the lens is protected by the surrounding environment and is nourished by the fluid within the eye (aqueous humour).
Cataracts in dogs: What are they & why they matter
A cataract is defined as an opacity, in most cases a white opacity, which develops within the lens. Once cataract develops in the lens of your dog’s eye, it can affect your dog’s vision.
Some of the problems caused by cataract are minimal and will go unnoticeable (i.e., slightly miss-judging the location of a toy or a ball thrown). As a larger volume of the lens is affected and the stage of the cataract progresses, severe vision compromise, bumping into obstacles and inability to navigate becomes apparent.
What are cataract stages in dogs?
The stage of cataract in a dog’s eye is defined and characterised by the degree of the volume of the lens that is affected. This is proportionally relevant to the degree of vision loss and eyesight problems your dog might be experiencing.
The three stages of cataract in dogs with characteristics and signs:
Depending on the volume of the lens affected by cataract, the stages of cataract are categorised as:
- Incipient – very early stage where less than 15% of the volume of the lens is affected, at this stage minimal (if any) changes in the appearance of the lens can be seen in your dog’s eyes
- Immature – a large proportion of the lens is affected, leading to areas of clouding or white appearance of the lens which can be noticeable at certain light conditions
- Mature – the entire volume of the lens is affected, leading a white or opaque appearance of the centre of the eye
The difference between these stages can only be established by an examination of your dog’s eyes by your vets or a veterinary ophthalmologist and cannot be performed at home.
If your dog is showing signs of vision loss or impairment in addition to a white structure within the centre of the eye, you should arrange an appointment at your local veterinary practice.
When does blindness occur in dogs with cataracts?
Complete and total blindness occurs at the third stage of cataract (mature cataract); however, signs of vision impairment and problems in your dog’s eyesight and vision will start to develop once the cataract has progressed from incipient to immature.
It is very important to recognise these changes in behaviour and vision and seek advice from your vets as the earlier the cataract is diagnosed in dogs, the better the outcome is for your pet.
Concerned about your dog’s eyes?
If your pet experiences one or more of the symptoms above, 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. What is the success rate of cataract surgery in dogs?
At our clinic, we see success rates of over 90% when it comes to restoration of eyesight.
2. Can dogs with early cataracts still see?
Yes, dogs with incipient cataract are able to see and some dogs with early immature cataract might be able to see some shadows and shapes.
3. Is cataract blindness reversible in dogs?
In most cases (i.e., diabetes, old-age, hereditary conditions) blindness is reversible though a surgical procedure.
4. Are all cataracts guaranteed to cause blindness?
No, certain forms of hereditary cataract will not progress to cause vision deficits or blindness but monitoring of cataract is important to understand if they are of a progressive nature or not.