Cataracts and Your Pet

Cataracts are, unfortunately, one of the most common eye problems in pets.  They are opacities in the lens of the eye and can affect any age, species, or breed.  Most cataracts are inherited, but pets with diabetes, trauma to the eye, or other ocular inflammatory diseases can also develop them.

Some cataracts can result in complete blindness.  Many pets do well without any type of treatment, however others develop problems such as glaucoma secondary to the cataracts.  Others may suffer decreased quality of life related to blindness.

There is no way to reverse cataracts, however a surgical procedure can be performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist in which the affected lens is removed.  This procedure, which is quite delicate, involves extensive aftercare.  In the carefully selected patient, however, it can almost completely restore vision.  Consultation with an ophthalmologist can help determine whether your pet might be a good candidate for surgery.