CATARACTS

NUCLEAR SCLEROSIS: Nuclear sclerosis is a normal aging process of the eye causing a painless partial opacity of both lenses that causes blurred vision. Nuclear sclerosis requires no therapy, as our pets are still visual, although they see better in bright light.

Hyper mature (complete opacity of the lens) cataracts can occur in one eye or the other and are removed surgically if the opacity (blue haze caused by compaction and hardening of the lens fibers) causes total loss of vision in both eyes, rendering the pet completely blind. Cataracts can be developmental or degenerative. The problem can occur in young Poodles, Boston Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Fox Terriers, Mini Schnauzers, and Afghans. The problem can result from diabetes, corneal punctures and from aging.