How Are Cataracts in Dogs Treated?

As much as you might want to spend hours gazing adoringly into your dog's eyes, this isn't such a great idea (your dog may think you're trying to dominate them). Eye contact is absolutely fine, as long as there's some restraint involved. And eye contact is also a good way for you to check your dog's eyes, looking for any changes that may require veterinary attention. Because just like humans, dogs can be affected by cataracts.

Cloudy or Milky

When a dog's eyes begin to look cloudy or milky, it can be a sign of cataracts. The colour of their eyes won't technically change but can become less pronounced, as though the colour is being diluted. This cloudiness in the lenses of your dog's eyes will begin to affect their vision. Without treatment, cataracts can become glaucoma, which creates tremendous pressure on the optic nerve, ultimately leading to its deterioration. If this should occur, complete loss of vision in the affected eye (or eyes) will follow. So it's important to act quickly in order to treat your dog's cataracts.

The Only Way Forward

Cataracts are highly treatable, but there's only one way to do this comprehensively. It's not a case of medication or therapy, and cataract surgery can be the only way forward. A veterinary surgeon will numb your dog's eyes, which manages pain while also immobilising the eye muscles. A small incision is then made in the eye's cornea, before a technique known as phacoemulsification is used. This essentially liquifies the defective eye lens, which is then suctioned away. Finally, an acrylic, intra-ocular lens is implanted into the eye, to replace the natural lens. The process is almost identical to when humans undergo cataract surgery.

The Recovery Period

Recovery from cataract surgery is uncomplicated, although your dog won't enjoy this period. They'll need to wear the so-called cone of shame, to prevent them from scratching at their eyes, which can be rather itchy as they heal. Additionally, your dog will have compromised vision during recovery, so their mobility may need to be curtailed. In order to avoid accidents, you'll need to limit physical activity and also keep a close eye on your dog, basically becoming their guide human while they recover.

So when you look into your dog's eyes (taking care not to overdo it), be sure to pay attention to the appearance of their iris, which should be crisp and clearly defined. If it seems to be losing some of its definition (or clouding over), it's time to have your dog examined for cataracts.

For more information, contact a veterinary surgeon near you.