Cataract refers to an eye problem that is characterized by the clouding of the natural lens of the eye. This condition can affect all dog breeds and can affect either one eye or both the eyes. The lens of the eye is in a hydrated state, consisting of water and protein. The water and protein balance in the lens is regulated by a sodium water pump. When this condition of the lens is disturbed, extra water moves inside the lens and the insoluble protein content increases. As a result, transparency is minimized, thus causing a loss of transparency.

Causes

Canine cataracts could be caused by infection, trauma or diabetes. Aging can be another contributory factor. Free radicals create harmful oxidizing agents in the body, which can cause eye tissue damage. If left untreated, can worsen the situation and makes your dog completely blind. Puppies can also face this problem, this is mainly because they are given artificial milk products. In most of the cases, this eye problem is inherited. Some dogs may have this problem at birth.

This eye problem can be recognized by an allergic type of a reaction in the lens of the eye. These reactions may further cause scars and glaucoma, thereby causing blindness. In diabetic dogs, this condition can cause rupture of the lens capsule. An affected dog might show strange behavior like bumping into things or passing urine frequently. The affected dog may feel very thirsty. You might observe cloudiness of the eye. If pet owners observe such symptoms, they should take the dog to the vet for a full eye check-up. This will help to prevent complications like glaucoma.

Treatment

If diagnosed early, this condition can be cured completely with surgery. Your veterinary ophthalmologist will do a proper eye examination. Though, these tests are not painful, sedative drugs are given to avoid your pet's movements during the tests. The surgery will be performed, either by large or small incision methods, depending upon the cause and also, the age of your dog. Once the surgery is done, the lens of the eye is replaced with artificial lens which will provide the dog a better vision. Eye drops are to be administered before, and after the surgery, as prescribed by the veterinarian ophthalmologist.

This condition can also be treated by using cineraria herb. It is believed that this herb helps dissolve the cataracts. This herb is mostly available in eye drop form. Needless to say, as the dogs' age, their vision is also adversely affected. Therefore, it is essential to provide your dog with a nutritious diet, which should include green vegetables and carrots. Provide your pet with foods rich in antioxidants and vitamin C that will help to get rid of the free radicals from your dog's body.

Prevent this problem by giving your dog, a mixture of bilberry and vitamin E. Bilberry can be obtained in a capsule form, and mixed with the dog food on a regular basis. Consult a vet regarding the dosage.