Cataracts In Cats Explained
A cataract occurs when the protein in the lens of the eye is damaged and begins to clump together. When this happens, light can't reach the back of the eye, which is where images are processed. The classic sign of a cataract is an opaque lens, but in the early stage of a cataract developing, the lens may appear clear. As cataracts develop, your cat's vision will deteriorate, and untreated cataracts can leave your cat completely blind.
Cats can inherit a susceptibility to developing cataracts, but the condition can also occur if your cat has diabetes, as high blood glucose levels can damage the blood vessels in their eyes. Additionally, certain drugs, including corticosteroids, can cause cataracts as a side effect. Here's an overview of the symptoms of cataracts and the current treatment approach:
Symptoms
Even if your cat does not yet have an opaque covering over the lenses of their eyes, they may still display any of the following symptoms associated with cataracts:
- Bumping into household objects they're familiar with and general clumsiness
- Easily startled
- Loss of confidence, which may present as a decreased interest in play
Treatment
A routine eye examination can be used to diagnose cataracts, but your vet may also want to carry out an ultrasound to assess the degree of damage. If the vet is concerned there may be an underlying health condition that has caused your cat to develop cataracts, they will take a sample of your cat's blood. A blood test can determine if your cat's inflammatory markers are raised, and this is a good indicator of the presence of an illness.
Currently, the only treatment for a cataract is the removal of the damaged lens. This procedure is carried out as a day case, and your cat will experience an immediate improvement in their sight. A veterinary surgeon will remove the damaged lens by using an ultrasonic surgical tool to break the lens into tiny pieces that are then removed from the lens capsule with a suction tool. An artificial lens, that's usually plastic, is then inserted into the lens capsule. You may have to put antibiotic drops in your cat's eyes for a few days after their surgery to minimise the risk of post-surgical infection, and the vet will want to examine your cat's eyes again a week or so after the procedure to ensure there's no sign of infection and the eyes are healthy.
Prompt treatment will prevent your cat experiencing unnecessary discomfort, so if you have any concerns about your cat's eye health, have them examined by your vet.