Posted by admin | Posted in Dog Care Tips | Posted on 04-08-2004
Tags: animals, bookmark, bookmarks, dog, dogs
Why is my dog cataracts?
Copyright (c) 2008 The Naturally Healthy Pet.com
As our dogs get older, they can development of opacity in the eyes, and start bumping into objects. In this article you can discover what cataracts are, and how you can help.
Introduction: A cataract occurs when proteins in the clear lens of the eye becomes opaque. Cataracts develop gradually over time and tend to be more common in older dogs. The changes that occur are irreversible, but human beings are treated by simple day-case surgery whereby the lens is removed from the capsule external and replaced by an artificial clear plastic lens. These operations are increasingly carried out in our companion animals too.
Causes of cataracts: Old age is a definite risk factor. Developmental cataracts can also occur, and diabetes, treatment with steroids, infection and toxicity were also causes. Other causes of cataracts are discussed in more depth on my website.
Why does a cataract affects vision: When we see the Light rays from the object we are seeing pass through the lens to reach the retina. If the lens is cloudy, the picture is distorted and can not focus as well. At first the humans with cataracts see an image as increasingly fuzzy and vague, often with halos of light around objects. This may increase over time to blindness. We assume that a similar process occurs in dogs affected by cataracts.
The cloudiness in the lens occurs because the water content in the lens is no longer correct. This leads to increased water content, increase in insoluble proteins, and opacity.
Some dogs develop hardening (sclerosis) of the lens as they age (> 10), but this is not a cataract. Since not affect vision, treatment is not necessary.
Treatments: Treatments include surgery, eye drops anti-inflammatory, antioxidant supplements and complementary therapies. These treatments are discussed in depth in the article on my website.
Complementary Therapies: holistic veterinarians recommend a review of diet and lifestyle, to ensure that your dog is getting the best nutrients and exercise levels. Natural antioxidants are felt to help sight, and may reduce cataract formation.
Naturopaths believe that free radicals induce damage causes cataracts, and may recommend dietary vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc and selenium to help reduce its progression.
If you see a dog in difficulties loss of vision, then some of the healing therapies like Reiki and spiritual healing can help. Massage can help comfort the dog, and crystal healing, for example, blue lace agate can help.
Veterinarians advise that the only treatment is surgical. However, seems that there are many eye drops available to help with the Falls.
Summary: In summary, nuclear sclerosis is common in aging dogs and needs no treatment. Therefore, do not assume that a dog with clouding eyes has cataracts. Have your dog checked by your veterinarian if you are concerned, and this article describes Several additional approaches that may help treat or prevent cataracts.
About the Author
Dr Alison Grimston is a holistic doctor and animal healer with a website for pet owners and therapists - sign up for her free report on keeping your pet healthy naturally, by logging in at http://www.TheNaturallyHealthyPet.com.
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