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Oculares

Cataracts

Clouding of the lens of the eye, causing progressive loss of vision. Common in dogs, especially senior and diabetic ones.

Moderate🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Pupil with a whitish or bluish-grey appearance
  • • Progressive loss of vision: bumping into objects, hesitating in new places
  • • Disorientation in low light
  • • In advanced cases: blindness

Causes

Ageing, genetic predisposition (breeds such as the Poodle, Cocker Spaniel and Husky), diabetes (which causes rapidly developing cataracts) and trauma. Not to be confused with senile sclerosis (normal with age and without serious loss of vision).

Diagnosis

Ophthalmic examination. The vet distinguishes a cataract from senile sclerosis and assesses the rest of the eye.

Treatment

The only effective treatment is SURGERY (replacing the lens), with very good results if the eye is otherwise healthy. Not all cases are operable.

Prevention

Hereditary cataracts cannot be prevented. Controlling diabetes to avoid diabetic cataracts. Eye check-ups in senior pets.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if you notice a whitish pupil or that your pet is losing its sight. If it is diabetic, arrange regular eye check-ups.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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