How to Diagnose Dog Cataracts

Cataracts are a common eye problem in dogs, causing a loss of functional vision over time. Surgery remains one of the few options for treating a dog's cataracts. However, many people believe that their dog has a cataract when it really doesn't. Some eye changes are just normal as the dog ages.

Instructions

1. Examine your dog's eyes regularly to look for any injuries or changes. Catching a cataract early can help with surgery or help you find other eye problems that should be treated.

2. Take your dog to the vet if his eyes have a cloudy or hazy look to them. Older dogs often get nuclear sclerosis which causes a similar appearance to cataracts but doesn't seem to limit the dog's vision as much. A trained vet can tell the difference between the two conditions.

3. Know your dog's medical history. Although this isn't possible for all dogs, particularly those adopted through shelters, knowing whether the dog has a family history of cataracts can help you determine the problem. Cataracts tend to be inherited so if there is a family history, it's something to keep an eye on.

4. Watch for changes in the dog's ability to see or her behavior in relationship to sight. As the cataract progresses, your dog will have greater difficulty seeing. If you notice changes in your dog's sight, you should have the problem checked out.

5. Recognize that certain health conditions make cataracts more likely in a dog's eyes. Diabetes is one of the most common contributors to canine cataracts and the cataracts tend to develop quickly in these cases. Trauma to the eye can also trigger cataracts to form.