Cataracts Or Cloudy Eye(s) In Cats

\causes, types, treatment, sysptoms, and prevention of cataracts in cats

While cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in humans, they are relatively rare in cats, but their impact can be severe if left untreated. Fortunately, successful treatment options exist for feline cataracts.

The cloudiness impairs vision and quality of life, commonly seen in kittens and senior cats. In kittens, it’s usually due to traumatic injuries and genetic disorders. Senoirs cats its mainly caused by chronic diseases and tramautic injuries.

It’s extremely distressing for cat owners to see their babies develop a cloudy layer in their eyes that compromises their quality of life. This article delves into the causes, prevention, symptoms, and treatment options for cataracts in cats’ eyes.

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What is a cataract? (How does the cloudiness develop in the cat’s eye?)

Cataracts affect the lens of the eye, disrupting its ability to focus light and causing blurry vision. This occurs when proteins and water within the lens undergo changes, resulting in cloudiness. Though less common in cats than in humans or dogs, all feline breeds and ages can be affected, with a genetic predisposition noted in Burmese and Himalayan cats.

Breeds of cats that are genetically most likely to develop cataracts over their lifetime:

Himalayan
Birman
Persian
Bengal
Russian blue
British shorthair

How can I tell if my cat is developing cataracts?

Regular veterinary check-ups offer a valuable opportunity to monitor the well-being of your cat’s eyes and identify early signs of cataracts before symptoms become apparent to pet owners. The early stages of cataracts are typically more manageable when detected promptly.

Cats often adapt well to vision loss, especially in their familiar home environment, leading to the common scenario of cataracts going undiagnosed until they have progressed significantly.

It’s crucial to recognize that not all instances of cloudy eyes in cats are indicative of cataracts. The aging process may cause the lens to develop a cloudy appearance, a phenomenon known as nuclear sclerosis or lenticular sclerosis.

If your cat does have cataracts, you might observe signs of vision impairment, such as clumsiness, hesitancy to explore, increased caution on stairs, or difficulties locating their food bowl or litter tray.

Causes of Feline Cataracts

Various factors contribute to the development of cataracts in cats, including

Genetic disorders

Trauma

Metabolic disorders

Radiations

Diabetes

Bacterial infections

Viral infections

Nutritional imbalances or deficiencies

Hormonal imbalances

Vaccination reaction

Glaucoma

Eye cancer

Allergies

Entropion

Penetration of foreign material in the eye

Keeping the cat in a dark place for a long period of time.

Aging

Electric shock

Inability to metabolize certain chemicals

Inability to metabolize certain proteins

Signs and symptoms of cataracts in cats

Cats are adept at concealing discomfort, making it crucial to observe potential signs of cataracts, including

Cloudy appearance in one or both eyes

Photophobia

Swollen eye

Bumping into familiar objects

Change in eye color

While cataracts themselves are not painful, associated conditions may cause squinting or eye discharge.

How does the vet find out if my cat has cataracts?

The vet uses a special tool called an ophthalmoscope to closely check your cat’s eyes. They’re looking for cloudy spots on the lens inside the eye. If these cloudy spots are found, it means your cat has cataracts.

After finding cataracts, the vet goes on a mission to find out the specific cause of the cloudy spots in the cat’s eye. Usually, cataracts happen because of another health issue. The vet does a thorough check-up, including blood tests and other checks, to figure out what’s causing the cataracts. This helps them understand the main reason behind your cat getting cataracts.

Types of Feline Cataracts

Cataracts are classified based on severity:

Incipient (up to 15% of the lens is affected)

Immature (15-100% of the lens is affected but has no effect on light passage)

Mature (the entire lens is affected, impeding light passage). Identifying the stage is essential for determining the appropriate treatment.

Prevention of cataracts in cats

Avoid inbreeding

Proper feeding

Regular health check-ups

How to treat cloudy eye(s) or cataracts in cats

Addressing the underlying cause is key to treating feline cataracts. Approaches include drugs to reduce inflammation, administering systemic antibiotics, multivitamin supplementation, surgical removal of the eye (enucleation) in severe cases, or cataract surgery to replace the lens. Post-surgery care involves topical eye medicine and confinement to prevent complications.

Nutrition’s Role In Preventing Feline Cataract

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in preventing feline cataracts. Adequate intake of amino acids, antioxidant vitamins (C, lutein), B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk. Choosing a balanced pet food appropriate for your cat’s life stage supports overall eye health.

In conclusion, vigilance, timely diagnosis, and appropriate care are crucial in managing feline cataracts and preserving your cat’s vision. Stay informed and work closely with your veterinarian to ensure the best outcome for your feline companion.