cataracts in dogs They usually appear due to advanced age, although there are other reasons that also influence their appearance, such as genetic predisposition, the diabetes or certain eye injuries or inflammationFor this reason, if you've noticed that your friend has lost confidence when walking, is a little clumsy, or if you suspect their vision is affected, we'll explain below. how to know if my dog ​​has cataracts, what are its causes and what treatments exist today.
But not only that, but also, by the end of this article you will know how are they diagnosedwhat does it consist of? cataract surgery in dogsLearn what care your pet needs and how you can help them adjust if surgery isn't an option. Don't miss it!
What are cataracts?
The falls are the opacity of the lens of the eyesThe lens is a type of clear inner lens Located behind the pupil and iris, its function is to focus light rays onto the retina. When animals (including humans) see something, light enters through the cornea, passes through the pupil, through the lens, and is projected onto the retina. retina, a layer of light-sensitive cells located at the back of the eye.
This lens must be totally transparent so that it can focus the light properly on the retina. However, if it is opaque, that is, if it has cataracts for whatever reason, it will not be able to do so and the image becomes blurred. fuzzy or it may even be completely lost. This opacification can be partial or totalIt can affect a specific area of ​​the lens or extend to the entire lens, and can occur in one or both eyes.
It is very important to distinguish cataracts from what is called nuclear sclerosisa normal change due to aging that can also give an appearance grayish or bluish to the center of the eye, but in most cases It does not significantly reduce visionOnly a veterinarian, through a proper examination, can differentiate between the two situations.
Depending on their stage of progression, cataracts are described as:
- IncipientVery small opacity (less than 15% of the lens). Vision remains almost normal.
- Immature: a larger part of the lens is opaque, vision is already clearly impaired.
- mature: almost the entire lens is opaque, the dog has lost functional vision in that eye.
- OverripeThe cataract is very advanced; the lens may wrinkle or degenerate, and the risk of cataracts increases. inflammation and glaucoma.
What are the causes of cataracts in dogs?
There are several causes that can make the lens of the eye cloudy. Some of them are: genetic and cannot be preventedwhile others are related to diseases or factors that can be partially controlled. The most important are:
- Advanced ageThe so-called senile cataracts appear in older dogs as a consequence of natural aging of the lensThey are very common in older dogs, although not all of them develop them.
- Genetic and hereditary predispositionThis is one of the most frequent causes. Certain races tend to develop hereditary cataracts, often in young dogsDogs of the following breeds Caniche, Cocker spaniel, Bichon frize, Schnauzer, Siberian Husky, Fox terrier, Labrador, Golden Retriever, Pekingese, bobtail, Shih Tzu y Lhasa apso They are more likely to have them, as well as other breeds such as the Boston Terrier, Maltese, West Highland White Terrier, or the French Bulldog.
- Diseases such as diabetes mellitusDiabetic dogs have a very high risk of developing cataracts, often in a way that... speed boat tourExcess glucose in the blood alters the metabolism of the lens and causes fluid to accumulate inside, leading to opacification.
- Trauma to the eyeStrong blows, penetrating wounds or eye contusions can directly damage the lens or trigger internal inflammation that ends up producing cataracts.
- Chronic eye inflammations (uveitis)Persistent inflammation within the eye can alter internal structures and promote the development of secondary cataracts.
- Metabolic diseases and toxinsMetabolic disorders, certain poisonings, radiation, or some specific medications can damage the lens.
- Developmental problems during gestationWhen a puppy's eye does not form correctly, the following may appear: congenital cataracts present from birth or in the first weeks of life.
And the symptoms?
The most common symptoms of cataracts are those related to the loss of transparency of the eye and decreased visionHowever, these signs aren't always obvious at first, as many dogs adapt best by using their sense of smell and hearing. It's advisable to carefully observe the following signs:
- Loss of vision: difficulty in orienting oneself, especially in new or poorly lit places.
- Low tolerance to lightSome dogs show discomfort in bright lights, squint, or avoid brightly lit areas.
- Excess tearing or accompanying signs of eye irritation.
- El the crystalline surface becomes opaque with a whitish, grayish or bluish tone that can be seen through the pupil.
- Clumsiness while walking: tripping over furniture, doors or steps that he used to climb without a problem.
- Difficulty in calculating distances: failures when jumping onto the sofa, getting into the car or going down stairs.
- Behavior changesThe dog may appear more insecure, dependent on the caregiver, less playful, or reluctant to explore new environments.
It is important to note that similar symptoms can appear in other eye diseases such as glaucoma, retinal detachment or progressive retinal atrophy, so you should always consult your veterinarian.
How are cataracts diagnosed in dogs?
To know for sure if a dog has cataracts, it's not enough to just look at the eye from above. The diagnosis requires a Complete veterinary evaluation, preferably by a veterinary ophthalmologistThe process usually includes:
- Detailed medical history: dog's age, breed, onset of symptoms, presence of diseases such as diabetes, previous eye trauma, and evolution of vision.
- Basic ophthalmological examination: observation of the eye with adequate light to assess eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, pupil and presence of opacities in the lens.
- Ophthalmoscopy and slit lampThey allow for a more detailed examination of the internal structures of the eye and the precise location of the cataract, its density and extent.
- TonometryIntraocular pressure measurement to rule out glaucoma, a complication that can be very painful and cause irreversible blindness.
- eye ultrasound: especially useful when the cataract is so dense that it prevents seeing the retina, as it allows assessment of whether there are detachments or other internal alterations.
- Electroretinography (ERG)This test measures the retina's response to light stimuli. It is a key test before surgery because if the retina is not functioning, The operation will not restore sight..
- Blood Tests: to detect systemic diseases such as diabetes or related metabolic disorders.
With all this information, the veterinarian determines not only if cataracts are present, but also what type are theywhat its probable cause is, if there are any associated complications, and if the dog is a good candidate for surgery.
How are they treated?
The only truly effective remedy for restoring vision is... cataract operation, with a success rate that in carefully selected dogs can range between 85% and 95%It is done under general anesthesia and the dog recovers very quickly if there are no complications, although it requires a strict postoperative.
There is currently no medication, eye drops, or supplement that remove an already formed cataractSome products may help control eye inflammation or slightly delay its progression in certain cases, but they are not a substitute for surgery.
The pillars of the treatment are:
- Phacoemulsification surgeryThis is the preferred technique. Through a small incision in the cornea, a device is inserted that fragments the opaque lens using ultrasound and aspirates the debris. Afterward, a lens is typically placed. artificial intraocular lenswhich allows the dog to focus in a way that is much more similar to normal.
- Control of underlying diseasesIn diabetic cataracts, it is crucial to carefully control blood glucose levels; in cases of uveitis or other pathologies, it is important to control inflammation to improve the prognosis.
- Treatment of complicationsIf uveitis, secondary glaucoma, or lens dislocation occur, the following are required: specific medications and even additional surgeries.
- Conservative managementWhen surgery is not possible for economic, health, or caregiver reasons, many dogs can adapt to partial or total blindness with the help of home adaptations and clear routines.
The veterinarian will decide whether or not to operate, as each dog and each case is unique. Age alone is not an absolute contraindication: many older dogs undergo surgery successfully as long as their overall condition and eye health allow it.
What is cataract surgery like in dogs?
Cataract surgery in dogs is a microsurgical procedure Highly specialized. Before scheduling it, the necessary eye and general tests are performed to ensure that the animal is fit to be anesthetized and that the retina is functioning correctly.
Surgery usually follows these basic steps:
- General Anesthesia with complete patient monitoring.
- Very small corneal incision, through which the lens is accessed.
- Lens failure using ultrasound (phacoemulsification) and aspiration of the opaque fragments.
- Implantation of a foldable intraocular lens to replace the optical capacity of the original lens.
- Closure of the incision, usually with minimal sutures or even without stitches if the technique allows.
After surgery, the dog usually remains hospitalized for a few hours to a day to monitor the initial postoperative phases. It will need to wear a mask. elizabethan necklace To prevent eye rubbing, receive various types of eye drops (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, pupil dilators or constrictors depending on the case) and go to frequent revisions during the first weeks.
In many cases, dogs begin to notice visual improvement very soon, even few hours or days After the operation, as the eye inflammation subsides, vision stabilizes and the quality of life improves significantly.
Can a dog with cataracts live without surgery?
Although surgery is the treatment that restores vision, many dogs with cataracts, especially if they progress slowly, can live with a good quality of life if their caregivers take certain steps. adjustments in the environment and maintain regular veterinary check-ups.
Some useful recommendations are:
- Do not move the furniture frequentlyso that the dog memorizes the route through the house.
- Use different carpets or textures in key areas (beds, doors, start of stairs) to give tactile references.
- Opt for sound toys or with a strong scent so that he continues to enjoy the game.
- Perform walks on a leash by familiar routes, avoiding areas with many obstacles or traffic.
- Keep stable schedules of food, walks and rest so that the routine provides him with security.
With this care, a dog with cataracts, even without full vision, can maintain a long, active, and happy life, provided there is no untreated pain or associated complications.
Understanding what cataracts are in dogs, what symptoms they cause, how they are diagnosed, and what treatment options are available allows you to make informed decisions with your veterinarian. Detecting changes in your companion's eyes early and consulting a specialist when something seems off is the best way to protect their eyes. eye health and quality of life long term.