Cataracts are common in diabetic dogs and can lead to blindness if left untreated. Understanding the cause of cataracts in diabetic dogs and the available treatment options is essential for pet owners. Here's what you need to know about cataracts in diabetic dogs.
What is a Cataract?
A cataract is an opacity that forms in the eye's lens, either partially or entirely. This opacity prevents light from passing through, causing visual impairment or blindness.
Why Do Diabetic Dogs get Cataracts?
The lens of the eye absorbs glucose from the eye fluids, converting it into sorbitol. Excess glucose in diabetic dogs leads to increased sorbitol production, which draws water into the lens, disrupting its clarity and causing cataract formation.
How Long Does it Take to Go Blind?
In most cases, cataracts mature and cause blindness within a few weeks. However, a new product called Kinostat® has shown promise in delaying or preventing cataract development if used early.
What Does it Mean to Say that a Cataract Is Mature?
The maturity of a cataract is determined by how much it obstructs the tapetum, the colorful area at the back of the eye. A very young cataract obstructs less than 10 percent of the tapetum, while a mature cataract obstructs the entire tapetum. Early surgical removal is recommended for the best outcome.
What is Uveitis?
Uveitis is inflammation of the eye's uveal tract, which can occur when a cataract becomes hypermature and starts to liquefy. This inflammation can be painful and may damage the eye further.
Can My Dog's Vision Be Restored?
The feasibility of cataract surgery depends on the overall health of the eye. If the only problem is the cataract and diabetes is well-controlled, surgery can remove the cataract and implant an artificial lens. However, if the eye is deeply inflamed or damaged, vision restoration may not be possible.
Is it Cruel to Keep a Dog Blind?
No, dogs can adapt well to blindness and lead happy lives with proper supervision and care.
Cataract Surgery: What is the First Step?
Consult with your regular veterinarian to ensure your dog's diabetes is well-regulated. If surgery is a viable option, your veterinarian will likely refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist.
What Happens at the Ophthalmologist's?
The ophthalmologist will evaluate the eye's health, perform an electroretinogram (ERG) to check for retinal electrical activity, and check for uveitis, which should be treated before surgery.
What Kind of Surgical Procedures Are Done?
Two types of surgery are performed: lens extraction and phacoemulsification. Phacoemulsification is preferred for diabetic patients as it is less invasive and offers better post-operative outcomes.
What Kind of Aftercare is Needed?
After surgery, the patient will need to wear an Elizabethan collar, use cortisone eye drops, and receive oral anti-inflammatories and pupil-dilating drops.
What Kind of Complications Are Possible?
Possible complications include long-term uveitis, opacification of the lens capsule, corneal clouding, bleeding into the eye, glaucoma, and retinal detachment.
Should Surgery be Done on Both Eyes?
One cataract removal can restore vision, but doing both eyes is an option for discussion with the ophthalmologist, especially if the dog requires maximum visual capability.
Partner with the Right Vet to Treat Vision Loss
Cataracts are common in diabetic dogs and can lead to vision loss if untreated. Early detection and timely cataract surgery, if feasible, can significantly improve the chances of restoring vision and improving your pet's quality of life. A veterinary ophthalmologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and help determine the best course of action for your dog's specific condition.
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