Dog Cataracts
Dog cataracts are so common that they can be found in all ages and breeds. Dog cataracts are found in the lens of the eye. They are the result of disruption of the normal arrangement of the lens fibers or it’s capsule. The disruption results in the loss of transparency and a reduction in vision. Cataracts can be identified by sight. They have a white appearance, similar to crushed ice. Dog cataracts form when the biomechanical system in the lens is damaged. The complicated sodium water pump system consists of 33% protein and 66% water. The system keeps the protein/water balance in check. When the pump system begins to fail, and extra water moves into the lens, the system becomes damaged and the percentage of soluble protein increases. Once these changes occur, loss of transparency occurs and cataracts form. While dog cataracts can form at any age and in any breed, there are certain breeds that are more susceptible to cataracts. Dog cataracts in the following breeds also form at certain ages in each breed. Breeds most susceptible to dog cataracts include: Afghan Hound (6-12 months), American Cocker Spaniel (6+ months), Boston Terrier (Congenital), Chesapeake Bay Retriever (1+ years), German Shepherd (8+ weeks), Golden Retriever (6+ months), Labrador Retriever (6+ months), Miniature Schnauzer (Congenital or 6+ months), Old English Sheepdog (Congenital), Siberian Husky (6+ months), Staffordshire Bull Terrier (6 months), Standard Poodle (1+ years), Welsh Springer Spaniel (Congenital), and the West Highland White Terrier (Congenital)