EYES

CATARACTS

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Cataracts are common in the geriatric canine patient and diabetics and may occur following eye trauma or infection, and some systemic illnesses. They advance most rapidly in small dogs and diabetics.
Symptoms: Any opacity of the lens of the eye can be considered a cataract. When advanced, the lens is white in color or appears crystallized. The most common form is the senile cataract, which commonly afflicts elderly animals, especially dogs, and may lead to blindness. Cataracts may occur following eye trauma or infection, diabetes or other systemic illness.
Diagnostics: Ocular exam.
Special Notes: The senile cataract, which commonly afflicts elderly animals, especially dogs, may not be a true cataract, but a clouding of the cornea. However, it does respond to the same natural products as regular cataracts.
Principles for Supplementation: Antioxidants are particularly useful in treating cataracts, as well as nutrients that support healing and have affinity for the eyes.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—CATARACTS