Juvenile Cataracts
If a dog develops cataracts, generally it will be later in life. However, certain breeds are prone to juvenile cataracts. There are highly successful treatments for this disease.
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The Basics
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Cataracts happen when a white film develops in the ocular lens of the eye. Some dogs acquire this condition very early, even as puppies.
Breeds Prone to Juvenile Cataracts
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Breeds prone to this condition are the Akita, Basenji, Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, Collie, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Hounds (Afghan, Beagle, Dachshund, Greyhound), Husky, Irish Setter, Mastiff, Poodle, Retrievers (Chesapeake Bay, Curly Coated, Labrador), Rottweiler, Samoyed, Shar Pei, Sheepdog, Spaniels (Clumber, Cocker, King Charles, Springer, Tibetan), Terriers (Bull, Fox, Jack Russell, Tibetan, West Highland, Wheaton, Yorkshire) and the Welsh Corgi. However, not all dogs within those breeds will develop the condition.
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Onset
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Juvenile cataracts can start as early as six months or as late as five years. Symptoms most often appear between six months and two years.
Complications
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Because the lens of the eye is covered by a white film, vision is impaired. This ranges from very mild to quite severe--sometimes even resulting in blindness. Other complications include glaucoma.
Treatments
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Treatment depends on the type of cataract and the severity of the condition. Veterinarians often recommend no treatment for mild cases that do not impede the quality of life. For more severe cases, however, there are two different treatments. Dissolving cataracts respond to steroid eye drops. Nondissolving cataracts need surgery. Surgery involves dissolving the eye lens using ultrasonic waves and then replacing it with a plastic version.
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References
- Photo Credit Husky image by Ines Peters from Fotolia.com
