Canine Cataracts - Understanding Cataracts in Dogs

canine cataracts are one of the most common eye condition in dogs. Cataract is a condition related to opacity or blur the lens of the eye. Cataracts can affect some or all of the lens. It is a progressive condition that begins as initial cataract which is a mild condition, and if left untreated gradually progress to the immature and mature cataract that has a severe case of this condition. Cataracts in dogs can result in total loss of vision if not treated properly and on time.

All dogs are susceptible to cataracts regardless of their age, sex and breed. Cataracts in dogs progress gradually, affecting their abilities right from the instant they develop this condition. There are no known vaccine for dogs has cataracts and can only be treated after it develops.

causes

The causes for cataracts in dogs may be congenital or acquired. Congenital cataracts are genetic in nature and usually affects both eyes. Although this condition can be present at birth in some breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and poodles, in others it can develop at any time during the first few weeks of life. Age can also cause cataracts and referred to as senile cataract. It usually develops in dogs who are six years or older.

The causes of acquired cataract include diabetes, previous injuries, trauma, imbalance in the metabolism of the lens in the eye and nutritional deficiencies. Cataract caused by trauma often affect only one eye, while other forms of the condition can affect both eyes.

Symptoms

The most prominent symptom of dog cataract is white or cloudy eyes. Other symptoms include swelling, redness and pain around the eyes, squinting, reluctance to explore new territory, marked reluctance to climb stairs, the constant bumping into things and drop in activities such as jumping.

treatment of

the most effective treatment for cataract surgery in dogs, especially if the situation difficult. The procedure must be done only by licensed pet surgeons as it requires anesthesia and incisions. However, even surgery can not always guarantee the complete restoration of vision.

cataract surgery called phacoemulsification and involves removing the opaque or the affected lens and replacement with an artificial lens. In some cases, stitches may be needed to support the lenses inserted. Depending on various factors, the recovery time can be anywhere from several days to more than six weeks.

, however, go through this operation, the dogs must be fit and healthy. Dogs with other conditions such as unregulated diabetes is not considered appropriate candidates for surgery. Unfortunately, there are other treatments that are known as effective for cataract. Although surgery can restore vision in all cases, it can definitely help to improve.

Fortunately, cataract surgery is usually 90 to 95% successful. In some cases the procedures do not provide the desired results, because cataracts are so severe that the pet surgeons are not able to do much to reverse the situation.

It is important for you to understand that dogs have cataracts in gradually progressing disease that can be reversed if diagnosed early. Regular eye exams can help in early detection and diagnosis if it is make sure that the appropriate treatment given to reverse the situation.