Cataracts in Dogs: A 2025 Vet-Approved Guide to Causes, Symptoms & Treatment🐶👁️

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Cataracts are a common eye condition in dogs, characterized by cloudiness in the lens that can lead to impaired vision or blindness. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and exploring treatment options are essential for maintaining your dog's eye health.

🧬 What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is an opacity or cloudiness in the lens of the eye, which hinders light from reaching the retina, resulting in blurred vision. The lens, normally transparent, focuses light onto the retina to produce clear images. When cataracts develop, this process is disrupted, leading to vision impairment.

⚠️ Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of cataracts in dogs:

• Genetics: Hereditary cataracts are prevalent in breeds like American Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, and Boston Terriers.
• Diabetes Mellitus: High blood sugar levels can lead to rapid cataract formation, often within a year of diagnosis.
• Aging: Older dogs may develop cataracts as part of the natural aging process.
• Eye Injuries: Trauma to the eye can result in cataract development.
• Inflammatory Eye Diseases: Conditions like uveitis can lead to cataracts.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Particularly in puppies, inadequate nutrition can cause cataracts.

🩺 Recognizing the Symptoms

Early detection of cataracts is crucial. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Cloudy, bluish-gray appearance in one or both eyes
• Clumsiness or bumping into objects
• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump
• Difficulty locating toys or food
• Changes in behavior due to vision loss

It's important to differentiate cataracts from nuclear sclerosis, a normal aging change that causes a bluish haze but doesn't significantly affect vision.

🔬 Diagnosis

If you suspect your dog has cataracts, consult your veterinarian. Diagnostic procedures may include:

• Ophthalmic Examination: Using an ophthalmoscope to assess the eye's internal structures.
• Slit-Lamp Biomicroscopy: Provides a detailed view of the lens and anterior eye structures.
• Electroretinography (ERG): Evaluates retinal function, especially important before considering surgery.
• Ocular Ultrasound: Assesses the eye's internal structures if the cataract obstructs the view.

💊 Treatment Options

The primary treatment for cataracts is surgical removal:

• Phacoemulsification: A procedure where the cloudy lens is emulsified with ultrasonic waves and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens.

Not all dogs are candidates for surgery. Factors such as overall health, retinal function, and the presence of other eye conditions influence eligibility. For dogs not undergoing surgery, management focuses on monitoring and addressing any secondary complications, like inflammation or glaucoma.

🛡️ Prevention and Management

While not all cataracts are preventable, certain measures can reduce risk:

• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Early detection through routine eye examinations.
• Blood Sugar Management: For diabetic dogs, maintaining proper glucose levels is crucial.
• Protective Eyewear: Using dog goggles to shield eyes from UV rays may help prevent cataract formation.
• Genetic Counseling: Avoid breeding dogs with a known history of hereditary cataracts.

📱 Support and Resources

For additional support and information:

• Ask A Vet: Access professional veterinary advice through the Ask A Vet platform.
• Download the Ask A Vet App: For quick access to veterinary support, download the Ask A Vet app.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve your dog's quality of life.

🐾 For more expert advice and pet care tips, visit AskAVet.com.