Clearer Vision for Your Furry Friend

What is Cataracts & How it Affects Your Pet

Cataracts in pets occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment or blindness. They can develop due to age, genetics, injury, or underlying health conditions, and typically require surgical intervention to restore vision.

The primary cause of cataracts in dogs is hereditary. Additional factors contributing to cataract formation may include diabetes, age-related changes, congenital conditions, secondary ocular diseases (such as uveitis or retinal disease), or nutritional deficiencies. In cats, the most prevalent cause of cataract development is uveitis or intraocular inflammation, particularly long-standing uveitis. The lens, a protein structure within the eye, may undergo opacification, leading to cataracts, which progressively impair vision as they become denser and larger.

Dogs with cataracts may experience vision loss or deficits over time. Common complications arising from cataract progression include intraocular inflammation (uveitis), glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure), and retinal detachment. While some of these complications may be treatable, the response to medical management can vary among animals. Some animals unfortunately may lose their eye if they are unresponsive to medical management and are painful. Approximately 50% of dogs with cataracts may develop one of these complications, whereas dogs undergoing cataract surgery face a 10% likelihood of encountering the same issues.

Pre-operative Testing for Cataract Surgery Eligibility:

Complete blood work and urinalysis (and sometimes a urine culture). These can be conducted by your pet’s primary care veterinarian or at our hospital if needed prior to surgery.
Electroretinogram (ERG): This non-invasive electrodiagnostic test assesses retinal function, akin to an EKG for the heart. It is essential to ensure the retina is functioning properly before proceeding with cataract surgery.
Ocular Ultrasound: This non-invasive diagnostic tool allows assessment of the back of the eye. An ultrasound probe evaluates the vitreal cavity, checks for retinal detachment, ensures the lens is appropriately positioned, and rules out lens capsule tears. Retinal detachment may preclude cataract surgery, as it causes vision loss.

Cataract Surgery Procedure

The surgical technique employed is similar to that used for cataract surgery in humans, known as phacoemulsification. During this procedure, ultrasound energy is utilized to break the lens into smaller pieces, which are then suctioned from the eye. The capsule surrounding the lens remains intact, while an artificial lens is implanted. If both eyes are affected by cataracts, surgery on both eyes is typically recommended. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, using the same equipment as that used for human cataract procedures.

Post-operative Care and Expectations

Most pets regain vision the day after surgery, although visual improvement may continue over the subsequent weeks!
Postoperative care includes administering up to five topical medications and three oral medications to manage inflammation, prevent glaucoma, treat potential secondary infections, and enhance comfort levels. A high frequency of medications is typically required for three weeks post-surgery, gradually tapering down to a single anti-inflammatory drop. And, to ensure proper healing an e-collar must be worn for up to 2 weeks post-surgery.

What Sets Our Clinic Apart

Our board-certified ophthalmologist will provide compassionate, comprehensive care for your pet using the latest state-of-the-art equipment. Your pet will stay with us in our ICU for three days and two nights to ensure they receive the proper medical care, including both topical and oral treatments, before and after surgery. Our ICU is staffed 24 hours a day to ensure your pet is closely monitored at all times.

Our skilled team of certified veterinary technicians specializes in anesthesia and the use of advanced equipment to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the procedure. After surgery, your pet will undergo thorough physical and ocular exams, and you will receive regular updates from our staff.

You’ll also be given a detailed written summary of your pet’s medical care plan, a schedule for follow-up visits, and guidance on what to expect during their recovery. To support your pet’s healing process, our team offers four complimentary follow-up appointments to ensure optimal care and that the post-surgery plan is working well for both you and your pet.