Cataracts & Glaucoma in Dogs

Vision loss may occur when serious eye disorders are left untreated.

Cataracts and glaucoma are two different, yet serious, eye disorders affecting dogs. Both conditions can be inherited, but are often seen most likely in older dogs. In order to preserve vision, both these conditions should be assessed promptly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Definition

A cataracts is a cloudiness that develops in the crystalline lens of the eye that may or may not interfere with vision. Glaucoma is increased pressure within the eye, which may cause loss of vision.

Types

Cataracts, depending on the age of onset, may be categorized as congenital (from birth), developmental (early onset) and senile (old age). When glaucoma is inherited, it is called primary glaucoma; when it is caused by an underlying eye disease, it is called secondary glaucoma.

Signs

Cataracts may appear as a bluish-gray or white color change to the eye, which may cause at times reduced vision in dogs. Dogs affected by glaucoma may present one or more of the following: dilated pupil, ocular pain, cloudiness in the eye, blood shot eye and/or the eye protruding more than the other.

Causes

Cataracts may be inherited or caused by trauma, older age, complications of diabetes mellitus, infections and toxicities. Glaucoma may be caused by genetic malformations, inflammation, tumors or underlying eye disorders.

Effects

Left untreated, cataracts may cause a serious inflammation in the eye that may lead to glaucoma or a detached retina. Glaucoma, if not treated promptly, may ultimately result in irreversible vision loss.

Treatment

Cataracts are removed through cataract surgery. Glaucoma is an emergency requiring medications to decrease the pressure and, depending on the potential for vision, several surgical procedures may be recommended.

References

• Dog Cataracts
• Glaucoma in Dogs
• Cataracts in Dogs