Most dog owners are shocked to discover that their diabetic dog will most likely develop cataracts in dogs and go blind within a year. This is a common complication of diabetes in dogs. Cataracts can develop in a matter of weeks, and cause vision loss in pets. In fact, sudden blindness is sometimes the first symptom of canine diabetes that pet owners notice.
What is a Cataract?
The lens, found in the front of the eyeball, is normally clear and transparent. A cataract forms when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and opaque, which blocks vision.
Why are Cataracts in Dogs a Problem for a Canine Diabetic?
Dogs with diabetes have high levels of glucose in their blood. High blood sugar levels over a long period of time will cause damage to every organ in the dog's body, including his eyes.
The lens receives all its nutrients from the fluid in the eye. Normally the lens is in a dehydrated state, compared to the rest of the body.
If glucose levels are too high in the eyeball fluid, these high sugar levels also pass into the lens. The lens then absorbs more water in an effort to dilute the sugar. The excess water causes the lens to become cloudy, which causes blindness in dogs.
This process can happen very quickly, often before a dog owner notices there's any problem. A pet may go blind within a few weeks.
How are Cataracts Treated?
Cataract surgery in diabetic dogs is becoming more common. The operation can be done once blood glucose levels in a diabetic canine are stabilized, which usually takes about three months. The surgery has a high success rate, as about three-quarters of the pets operated on regain their vision.
However, the surgery is quite expensive, and not everyone can afford it. Some pet owners decide against it. Dogs adjust quickly to being blind, and with a little extra care, can live long and happy lives even without their sight.
The vet will have to monitor the pet's eyes regularly to be sure further complications don't develop.
Common Complications with Cataracts
Sometimes a cataract becomes "hypermature," which means it starts to dissolve and leak protein into the eyeball. As the cataract liquifies, it causes inflammation and redness in the eye, which is quite painful for the pet.
Unfortunately, dogs with diabetes are prone to this complication. If uveitis develops, cataract surgery is no longer an option due to an increased risk of complications.
Uveitis is also associated with glaucoma and detached retinas, so it's important to take a pet with uveitis to the vet right away for treatment.
Can Cataracts be Reversed?
Vets will say no, but some herbalists believe that bilberry can slow down the progression of cataracts and may even reverse them. This close relative of the blueberry has a long history in folk medicine for use with eye problems. Studies have shown that bilberries contain anthocyanins, which neutralize free radicals that can damage the eyes.
Will bilberry help a blind dog? It's hard to say. It wouldn't hurt to try giving a pet bilberry, as it's a safe herb to use. Remember to check with the vet before making any changes in a diabetic canine's treatment plan.
All dog owners need to know the symptoms of diabetes in dogs. If a pet develops diabetes, it's important to have it treated right away to prevent blindness in dogs.
References
How to Prevent Cataracts in Dogs
Darlene Norris - Darlene Norris is a cat-lover who has been owned by many kitties over the years. She was employed as an assistant manager at an animal ...
