Cataracts are an eye condition that can affect both dogs and cats, and although more common in older animals, they can also develop in younger pets due to genetic factors or underlying diseases. Understanding how cataracts form, how they worsen over time and what treatment options are available is crucial to providing the best care for our pets.

What are Cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens, the clear lens of the eye that focuses light onto the retina. When the lens becomes opaque, a pet’s vision is impaired. Depending on the severity of the cataract, this can range from a slight decrease in vision to complete blindness.

Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, and their development can be gradual or rapid. Although they occur more frequently in dogs than in cats, both species can be affected.

How do cataracts form?

Cataracts develop due to a change in the structure of the lens proteins, which causes them to become opaque instead of transparent. This process can have several causes:

1. Genetic factors

In dogs, genetic cataracts are a common cause, especially in certain breeds. Breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel, Poodle, and Golden Retriever have a genetic predisposition to develop cataracts, often at an early age. In cats, although genetic cataracts are less common, certain breeds may also be predisposed.

2. Metabolic Diseases

Diabetes mellitus is a major cause of cataracts in dogs. In diabetic animals, elevated glucose levels in the lens cause a buildup of sorbitol, a substance that attracts water to the lens, leading to swelling and opacification. This type of cataract can develop rapidly, in a matter of weeks or months.

3. Trauma

Eye injuries, such as severe blows to the eye, can damage the lens and trigger the formation of a cataract. In these cases, the cataract usually develops in the affected eye and may be progressive.

4. Inflammatory Diseases

Uveitis, an inflammation of the eye that can be caused by infections or autoimmune diseases, can also induce cataract formation. Chronic inflammation can alter the composition of the ocular fluid, affecting the lens and favoring its opacification.

5. Age

Natural aging is a common cause of cataracts in older pets. Over time, biochemical changes in the lens cause proteins to clump together, forming opaque areas that make vision difficult.

Cataract Progression

The rate at which a cataract progresses can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some cataracts remain stable and do not significantly affect vision for years, while others may worsen rapidly.

In early stages, the cataract may be small and affect only a portion of the lens, causing a slight decrease in vision. Over time, the cataract may grow and cover more areas of the lens, resulting in more severe visual loss.

If left untreated, an advanced cataract can lead to additional complications, such as glaucoma. This occurs when clouding of the lens disrupts the circulation of aqueous humor, the fluid that nourishes and maintains eye pressure. The increased pressure inside the eye can damage the optic nerve, leading to permanent blindness if left untreated.

Cataract Treatments for Pets

Treatment for cataracts depends on the degree of visual impairment and the underlying cause. Currently, there are no medical treatments that can reverse a cataract, so intervention usually focuses on symptom management or surgery.

1. Medical Treatment

Although there are no medications that can eliminate a cataract once it has formed, medical treatment may be helpful in certain cases:

• Anti-inflammatory drops and eye medication: In cases of cataracts related to ocular inflammation or uveitis, medications can be used to reduce inflammation and prevent further complications, such as glaucoma. Drops can also help control pain and irritation.
• Control of underlying disease: In pets with diabetes-induced cataracts, it is critical to control blood glucose levels to prevent rapid progression of cataracts and other diabetes-related complications.
• Use of nutraceuticals: Some nutraceuticals with antioxidants and vitamins beneficial to the eye can help slow the rate of cataract development. One of them would be Occulus+ from Dr+Vet by AndersenPets.

While medical treatments can alleviate symptoms or slow the progression, they do not eliminate cataracts, so the most effective option is still surgery.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery is the only definitive treatment to remove cataracts and restore vision. The most commonly used technique is phacoemulsification, similar to cataract surgery in humans.

Phacoemulsification procedure

During surgery, the veterinarian makes a small incision in the eye and uses ultrasound to fragment and remove the cloudy lens. An artificial intraocular lens is then placed in the eye to replace the natural lens, restoring the eye’s ability to focus.

Cataract surgery in pets has a high success rate, with most animals regaining functional vision. However, it is not without risks, such as infection, inflammation or postoperative complications, so proper follow-up after the procedure is important.

Requirements for Surgery

Not all animals are ideal candidates for surgery. The veterinarian will evaluate the pet’s general health, the condition of the eyes and whether there are other conditions, such as advanced glaucoma or retinal detachment, that could affect the success of the operation.

Conclusion

Cataracts in pets, although common, can significantly affect their quality of life if left untreated. From their formation to their progression, early diagnosis is critical to consider the most appropriate treatment options. Surgery is the most effective treatment to restore vision in animals with advanced cataracts, while medical management can help control symptoms and prevent complications. Regular veterinary follow-up is essential to ensure that our pets enjoy a full and healthy life, even in their old age.