Cataracts in Dogs

A cataract, is an eye disease that commonly occurs in dogs. Each and every breed of dog is vulnerable to this condition. The disease comes in various forms and is generally seen in older dogs. In this condition the pupils of the dog appear milky white or cloudy. This greatly affects normal vision. Cataract makes the eye opaque (impervious to light). In short, the eyes cannot detect light. When the entire lens of the eye becomes cloudy, vision is lost. The cataract may progress rapidly over weeks or develop slowly over years.

Cataracts in Dogs

Stages

Incipient Cataract: In this type, the disease is in its initial stage and the opacity of the eye is very small. As a result, the dog has no problem viewing objects. Incipient cataract may block the vision partially.

Immature Cataract: This form of cataract causes blurred vision as more portion of the eye turns cloudy. However, vision is not completely lost. This is probably the second stage of cataracts in dogs.

Mature Cataract: In this form, the disease is in the critical stage. The entire lens turns white. As a result, the transparency of the eye gets drastically affected. Eyes are no longer able to function properly.

Causes

Free radicals that produce harmful oxidizing effects in the body can also damage the eye tissue. In most cases, the disease is inherited. That means the dog is born with this eye problem. Like humans, dogs start showing signs of cataracts with age. The disease is often diagnosed after the dog completes eight years of life. Dogs who have diabetes, mellitus are susceptible to this condition. Cataracts can also occur in orphan puppies who are given artificial milk replacer diet.

Treatment

This disease can be easily treated in its early stages. In case, you notice that portion of your dog's eye has become white, immediately visit the veterinarian. Mature and immature cataracts can be removed surgically. However, if treatment is delayed, it may cause permanent damage to the eye. A healing herb known as cineraria is also helpful to reverse cataracts in dogs, reducing the possibility of any surgery. This medicine can clear cataracts and is usually available in an eye drop form.

As the dog gets older, eyes lose their ability to see things clearly. This is a natural phenomenon that develops with age. A nutritious diet is essential to maintain normal vision of your dog. It is necessary to include vegetables such as kale, carrots and other green vegetables. This is because these foods are rich in antioxidants, which help to fight free radicals. Vitamins E and C, known for their antioxidant properties, can also block the harmful effects of free radicals.

Antioxidants such as bilberries that are available in capsule form, can protect the eye tissue. A recent study has shown that a combination of bilberry and vitamin E can stop lens clouding in early stage cataracts. The prescribed dosage is 50 milligrams that can be mixed in your dog's food everyday. You can also give beta-carotene, an antioxidant to your pet as it gets converted into vitamin A in the body. This in turn promotes the dogs eye wellness along with its health.