Managing Canine Cataracts: Vet-Approved Treatments & Natural Remedies

Did you know you can slow down or even manage canine cataracts with both conventional treatments and natural remedies? In this article, we’ll explore both options, giving you the tools to make informed decisions about caring for your dog's eyes. Let’s dive in!

What are Canine Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the eye's normally clear lens becomes cloudy, blocking light from reaching the retina and causing vision impairment. The lens—located behind the iris and pupil in your dog's eyes—is responsible for focusing light on the retina, but its transparency is crucial for proper vision.

However, it’s important to emphasize that cataracts are not a retinal disease. They affect the lens, but can negatively impact retinal function.

There is the possibility that even the healthiest dogs can develop cataracts

It's important to note that in some cases, a cataract completely blocks light, affecting one or both eyes. They can range from typically mild cloudiness to severe cases that may lead to blindness. No matter how healthy your dog is, there's still a chance it could develop cataracts, such as in the case of hereditary cataracts.

Types of Cataracts Your Dog May Have

Cataracts in canines can be classified based on their location on the lens, resulting in three types:

• Nuclear cataracts develop in the center of the lens and are linked to aging. They can be confused with nuclear sclerosis, a condition in older dogs that causes a bluish haze but doesn't affect vision, unlike cataracts.
• Cortical cataracts develop on the outer edge of the eye's lens (the cortex) and gradually progress toward the center.
• Posterior subcapsular cataracts form at the back of the lens and progress quickly, often leading to the loss of your dog's sight.

What Causes Cataracts In Dogs?

Based on the cause, cataracts can be:

• Congenital cataracts are present at birth or develop soon after and can be caused by genetic factors, non-genetic factors, or a combination of both.
• Hereditary cataracts are passed down genetically from a dog’s parents. Certain dog breeds like Poodles, Siberian Huskies, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Boston Terriers, and Bichon Frises are more prone to developing them.
• Diabetic cataracts develop in many dogs with diabetes mellitus aka "sugar diabetes." High blood sugar leads to excess glucose in the eye fluids, causing sorbitol buildup in the lens, which draws in water and makes the lens cloudy.
• Traumatic cataracts occur as a result of eye injuries like blunt force or puncture wounds. Cataracts caused by trauma are often painful.
• Metabolic cataracts typically develop in puppies with poor nutrition. It is crucial to note that nutritional deficiencies can potentially lead to cloudy eyes.
• Age-related cataracts, also known as senile cataracts, are common in older dogs. This is entirely different from nuclear sclerosis.
• Secondary cataracts develop as a result of other eye conditions, such as lens-induced uveitis, retinal degeneration, and other risk factors.

Dog owners, it is important to remember that no matter the type of cataract your pet has, consulting a veterinary ophthalmologist is crucial to prevent the condition from worsening.

Which Dogs Are Prone to Cataracts?

In general, many dog breeds are more prone to cataracts, such as:

• American Cocker Spaniel
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Australian Shepherd
• Bichon Frisé
• Boston Terrier
• French Bulldog
• German Shepherd
• Havanese
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Labrador Retriever
• Pekingese
• Poodle
• Siberian Husky
• Silky Terrier
• Welsh Springer Spaniel

What are the Clinical Signs of Cataract in Dogs?

Cataracts cause visible cloudiness in the eye. Signs include:

• Bumping into objects
• Hesitation to walk or jump
• Reluctance to perform usual activities
• Behavioral changes like anxiety or aggression due to impaired vision
• Eye inflammation, redness, or rubbing (often linked to conditions like uveitis)

The indicators of nuclear sclerosis are different from those of a cataract

Did you know that cataracts are typically not painful unless caused by trauma or in advanced stages? If you suspect an injury or advanced cataracts, consult a vet promptly. This is also to rule out nuclear sclerosis and other issues with your dog's eyes.

Quick note: While cataracts are marked by a cloudy lens, they are technically referred to as "incipient cataracts" when they affect less than 10% of the lens.

Early onset of cataracts in dogs—this includes hereditary cataracts!

In the early stages, cataracts appear as small, faint cloudy spots on the eye’s lens, often difficult to see without specialized equipment. This is why the expertise of veterinary ophthalmologists is so important. Dogs usually retain good vision, and noticeable changes in behavior or vision are uncommon at this stage.

Immature cataracts (intermediate stage)

As these conditions progress, cataracts occupy more of the lens, making the eyes appear milky or pearly. During this time, the lens begins to become increasingly cloudy and more noticeable. At this stage, your dog's vision deteriorates, leading to behaviors like bumping into objects and exploring with hesitation.

Mature cataracts (advanced stage)

At this stage, your pet's eye becomes bluish-gray and opaque, with a solid white spot in the center. This advanced stage leads to significant loss of vision and your dog will show clear signs of blindness. A mature cataract will often be accompanied by sudden changes in your dog's behavior or routine.

Hyper mature cataracts

At this stage, your dog’s eye cloudiness may become sparkly or crystalline due to leaking lens material. It is typical that the lens capsule appears wrinkled at this point. Additional complications, such as secondary glaucoma, inflammation, and pain, may also occur in cases of hypermature cataracts. At this point, your dog's ability to see will be significantly compromised.

What Can Be Mistaken for Canine Cataracts?

Many eye problems can resemble cataracts, but it's crucial to differentiate them, as each requires a different treatment approach. Here are some eye conditions commonly mistaken for this issue:

• Nuclear sclerosis causes the eye lens to appear cloudy or bluish-gray, a normal aging change in older dogs that does not impair vision. Unlike cataracts, it doesn’t result in complete lens opacity.
• Corneal dystrophy causes the eye to appear cloudy and affects the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. It is a hereditary condition, not related to the lens like cataracts.
• Corneal ulcers are typically caused by infection, trauma, or an underlying condition. They can make the eye look cloudy and may be mistaken for cataracts. However, if left untreated, they can lead to serious complications like corneal perforation, cataracts, or glaucoma.
• Glaucoma results from increased intraocular pressure, causing cloudiness in the eye. It may also cause the eye to become enlarged and bulging. This painful condition can lead to vision loss if left untreated.

Glaucoma vs. Cataracts in Dogs

Glaucoma and cataracts are distinct eye conditions in dogs with different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Cataracts cause lens cloudiness, while glaucoma is marked by increased pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. Both can lead to vision loss.

Causes

Cataracts: Opacification of the entire lens due to age, genetics, or other factors.

Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure, often caused by eye conditions like tumors, inflammation, or lens dislocation, or it can be inherited. Breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and Basset Hounds are more prone.

How to recognize glaucoma

Symptoms: Redness, cloudiness, dilated pupils, enlarged eyes, and frequent eye rubbing. Early detection is crucial since glaucoma can cause rapid loss of vision.

Early glaucoma signs

Subtle at first, early signs include eye redness, squinting, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and dilated pupils. Because these signs overlap with other conditions, a vet visit is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Another question is: can dogs live with glaucoma? Yes, but they require ongoing care and treatment to maintain a good quality of life. Moreover, glaucoma is painful due to the increased pressure inside the eye, with pain levels ranging from mild to severe as the disease progresses.

Prognosis

The prognosis depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, how early it is diagnosed, and how well your dog responds to treatment. Early intervention improves outcomes for your dog's health.

The time it takes for a dog to go completely blind from cataracts depends on several factors:

• Type of cataract: Congenital cataracts can progress rapidly, causing blindness within months.
• Dog's age: Immune response can become weak as a dog ages.
• Health status: Diabetic dogs may lose vision more quickly.
• Treatment: Untreated cataracts often lead to vision loss as well as cataract dissolution, which can cause deep inflammation and more damage.

Can Dogs Live Comfortably With Cataracts?

Dogs can live comfortably with cataracts, especially in the early stages. However, their comfort depends on several factors:

• Cataract stage: In the early stages, dogs may still have good vision, but as the cataract progresses, vision worsens and comfort decreases.
• Adaptability: Dogs often adjust well if the condition progresses slowly, even with reduced vision.
• Environment: Ensure a well-lit, obstacle-free environment and maintain a consistent routine to improve your dog's comfort.
• Veterinary care: Regular vet visits help manage the condition and maintain your dog’s comfort.
• Patience and understanding: Give your dog time to adapt. With patience, you can help them adjust and improve their well-being.

How Do Vets Diagnose Cataracts in Dogs?

Cataracts are diagnosed by a veterinarian, but it's best to see a specialist (veterinary ophthalmologist). Often, cataracts are diagnosed late because owners overlook the early signs of a diseased lens. Dogs adapt quickly, so owners may not realize their pet’s vision is impaired until they start bumping into objects.

Cataract diagnosis involves several methods, including:

• Physical examination
• Slit-lamp biomicroscopy
• Ophthalmoscope exam
• Ocular ultrasound
• Pupil dilation (to assess cataract progression)
• Tonometry (to check pressure in the eyes and rule out glaucoma)

Additionally, blood and urine tests may be recommended to detect underlying conditions like diabetes mellitus and kidney disease that can contribute to cataracts and similar eye diseases.

The Importance of Early Detection of Cataracts in Dogs

It is crucial to detect cataracts early to preserve your dog's health and quality of life. It helps prevent complications such as total vision loss, secondary glaucoma (which may result in eye removal), and lens luxation, which can cause pain and further issues.

What Is The Treatment For Cataracts In Dogs?

The severity of the cataracts and your dog's overall health are key factors that influence the treatment approach:

Surgical treatment for cataracts, most commonly phacoemulsification, uses ultrasound to break up the affected lens, which is then replaced with an artificial lens. This procedure has a high success rate (90%) and can significantly restore vision and improve a dog's quality of life. Recovery requires strict use of eye drops to control inflammation and regular vet check-ups.

Medication, typically in the form of anti-inflammatory eye drops, is often prescribed to manage inflammation but cannot cure cataracts. For diabetic dogs, diabetes medication can help slow the progression of cataracts.

Supplements and special diets rich in antioxidants can support the health of your dog's eyes. It is important to remember that along with these treatments, regularly monitor your dog, maintain routine vet visits, and keep a consistent daily routine to help manage their condition.

How do you treat early cataracts in dogs?

While a surgical procedure is the only definitive treatment for cataracts, early-stage cataracts may not require immediate surgery of the affected eye. You can potentially slow their progression by providing a balanced diet, administering supplements, treating underlying conditions like diabetes, and using prescribed eye drops. If the cataract affects only one eye, these measures may help delay surgery.

Complications and Prognosis of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery has a high success rate, with 9 out of 10 dogs seeing improvement. Most complications, such as lens fiber regrowth and eye inflammation, are minor. However, more severe complications, like glaucoma or retinal detachment, can occur in rare cases.

Caring for your dog after cataract surgery

• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely.
• Keep the cone on for 1-4 weeks to prevent scratching or pawing at the eyes.
• Administer eye drops as prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Limit activity—no running or rough play for a few weeks to allow proper healing.

Can Dog Cataracts Be Treated Without Surgery?

No, cataracts cannot be cured without surgery. Once they begin developing, surgery is the only effective treatment. However, supplements, a proper diet, and medication can slow their progression.

Studies show that untreated dogs had a failure rate 65 times higher than drug-treated dogs and 255 times higher than those treated surgically. Additionally, dogs treated with medication had a failure rate 4 times higher than those who underwent surgery. The study concludes that if phacoemulsification isn't an option, topical anti-inflammatory therapy should be used.

How to Prevent Cataracts in Dogs

In most cases, cataracts cannot be prevented, especially if they are genetically inherited. However, early treatment of metabolic diseases like diabetes can lower the risk. Avoiding eye trauma and providing puppies with a balanced diet can also help reduce their risk of developing cataracts. As highlighted earlier, there are also certain dog breeds that tend to develop cataracts.

Dog Cataracts Natural Treatments

Some natural products may slow the progression of cataracts in dogs but cannot reverse existing damage. One such product is CLEARVISION, which contains natural ingredients like Naphthalinum 30k, Secale Cornutum 30k, Natrum Mur 30k, and Causticum 30k. These ingredients help support the eye lenses and alleviate symptoms like blurred vision, watery eyes, dull pain, and eye damage.

For an even stronger effect, you can combine CLEARVISION with TONICPET #1, TONICPET #5, and TONICPET #12:

TONICPET #1 contains Calcarea fluorica 6x, which supports connective tissues, bones, teeth, and skin, helping maintain your dog’s eye health and vision.

TONICPET #5 contains Kali muriaticum 6x, known for its potential benefits in addressing issues with mucous membranes, inflammation, and glandular health, including the eyes.

TONICPET #12 contains Silica 6x, which promotes tissue healing, reduces inflammation, and supports overall eye health.

About the author

Dr. Iuliana Mihai, DVM, MSc, PhD

Iuliana Mihai, DVM, MSc, PhD, is a Bucharest-based veterinary expert specializing in internal medicine and oncology.

Her work has been published in reputable publications such as Veterinary Medicine Journal, Catster.com, Dogster.com, Hepper.com, Meowiz.com, Springnaturals.com, Petkeen.com, and Wilderharrier.com.

She is a malpractice and negligence veterinary consultant and a graduate of The University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine and The Romanian Academy.

Read the complete profile of Dr. Iuliana Mihai, DVM, MSc, PhD (Veterinarian) here.