A canine cataract is an affliction that can be caused by disease, trauma or genetic inheritance. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, and can cause partial or total blindness. They can usually be seen in the eyes as cloudy or opaque spots that may resemble crushed ice. Until recently, surgery was really the only option to clear the eyes of cataracts. Canine cataract drops are now available, and this leaves you with a choice when it comes to restoring your dog's vision.
Canine Cataract Drops
Canine cataract drops come under many brand names, but most utilize the active ingredient of N-acetylcarnosine. This drug provides an antioxidant effect to many portions of the eye. Antioxidants help to fight free radicals, and the ingredient in this medication has been reported to slow, prevent and even reverse canine cataracts. Dog owners have seen marked improvement of the eyesight in their dogs, no matter how long cataracts had been present, and how much sight had been lost. Of course, success will vary depending upon these factors, but consistent use of this drug as directed is virtually guaranteed to produce at least some improvements.
Benefits of Canine Cataract Drops
There are many benefits in using canine cataract drops, especially when they are chosen over surgery. Eye drops for cataracts are made from a solution that is not painful, and they are very easy to use. The active ingredient is based on a natural molecule, so there are virtually no side effects. This option is much less expensive than a surgical procedure and the complications of post-surgery can be completely avoided. Additionally, surgery may involve complete removal of the eye. With canine cataract drops, not only might the eye be saved, but proper use could also restore a majority of vision and health.
Results May Vary
Results do tend to vary with the use of canine cataract drops. While drastic improvement is shown in a large number of cases, certain types of cataracts may show slower signs of reduction. If eyesight has been completely lost, or cataracts have been caused by injury or long-term use of steroid medication, results are not as pronounced. Canine cataract drops may need to be given for longer periods of time, and with much consistency, to achieve better success rates under these conditions.
Concerns to Consider
While no side effects have been reported when using canine cataract drops, there are some additional things to keep in mind. The effectiveness of the ingredient contained in this drug can be limited or inhibited when combined with certain vitamins or supplements. A mixture of these drops with supplements intended to provide antioxidants to the eyes is not recommended. Particularly, Lutein and Zeaxanthin are supplements that utilize a similar process for healing the eyes. This process does not use an identical route to healing, but can actually compete with N-acetylcarnosine, which may decrease effectiveness for both the drops and the supplements.