How to Care for a Dog with Cataracts
Like humans, dogs can develop cataracts as they age. Unlike humans, their other senses are very keen and they may not notice the loss of sight as much. A veterinarian should diagnose all dog vision problems but if your pooch suffers from cataracts, follow some easy guidelines to make his life easier.
Instructions
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Keep his living quarters constant. Your dog uses his sense of smell and placement to help him maneuver around obstacles. When you rearrange the furniture, you are creating an unknown environment and he must readjust. Keeping an area the same will help him feel secure in his surroundings.
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Provide a safe haven for your furry friend. Your dog would protect you with his life; protect him by making sure he is safe from stray dog attacks or wandering into the street. A secure fence will make his outdoor time a pleasure.
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Lather on the attention. Just because his vision is dimming doesn't mean his need for love has. He will appreciate your petting now more than ever. Get a good dog brush and tend to his fur. He will enjoy it and you will reduce shedding.
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Test your dog for diabetes. One of the leading causes of cataracts in canines is diabetes. If your dog has this disease he will need ongoing care from a veterinarian. Overweight dogs tend to develop diabetes more frequently so keep your pooch in shape with a high fiber dog food for overweight dogs.
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Visit your veterinarian to rule out other sight disorders such as nuclear sclerosis that presents with a slight graying of the eye lens in older dogs.
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Consider surgery if you can't help your dog adapt to his reduced eyesight in other ways. There is no treatment that is non-surgical and you and your veterinarian must decide together what the best treatment will be.
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Resources
- The Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health: The complete pet health resource for your dog, cat, horse or other pets - in everyday language. (Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health (Home Edition)
- Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook
- The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats: Over 1,000 Solutions to Your Pet's Problems - From Top Vets, Trainers, Breeders, and Other Animal Experts
- Photo Credit Image, courtesy of Stock.xchng
