Cataracts

Cataracts are opacifications of the crystalline lens that impair vision. They can affect part or all of the lens and one or both eyes. In dogs, hereditary cataracts are common in many breeds, while diabetic cataracts develop rapidly due to osmotic changes in the lens. Cataracts are classified by stage (incipient, immature, mature, hypermature) and age of onset.

Symptoms & Signs

• Cloudy or bluish-white appearance of the eye
• Reduced vision or blindness
• Bumping into objects
• Reluctance to navigate unfamiliar areas
• Change in eye color
• Possible secondary inflammation (lens-induced uveitis)

Causes & Risk Factors

Hereditary (most common in dogs), diabetic (rapid onset due to sorbitol accumulation), age-related (senile), traumatic, toxic, radiation-induced, or secondary to other eye diseases (uveitis, retinal degeneration).

Diagnosis

Slit-lamp biomicroscopy for detailed lens examination. Ocular ultrasound if the fundus cannot be visualized. Electroretinography (ERG) to assess retinal function before surgery. Complete ophthalmic examination including tonometry.

Treatment

Phacoemulsification (ultrasonic lens removal) with intraocular lens implantation is the treatment of choice. Success rates exceed 90% in appropriate candidates. Medical management of lens-induced uveitis with anti-inflammatory drops.

Prevention

Genetic testing and CERF/OFA eye examinations for breeding stock. Tight diabetic control to prevent diabetic cataracts. Annual ophthalmic screening in predisposed breeds.

Prognosis

Excellent visual outcomes with surgery (>95% success rate). Without surgery, mature cataracts cause blindness. Lens-induced uveitis and glaucoma are potential complications of untreated cataracts.

Affected Breeds (12)

Related Conditions

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Glaucoma
• Lens Luxation