cataract is an opacity in the lens of the eye. The entire lens may be involved or just a part of it.  The patient will not be able to see through the opacity. And then why dog can get catarac?The lens of the eye is round, hard, and normally as clear as glass. Looking at the lens it is hard to believe it is a piece of living tissue.  The lens is suspended by fibers which can adjust its position so that one can focus.  The lens is encased in a capsule and depends on the fluids of the eye for nutrients. The lens does not receive a direct blood supply.

Normally, the lens absorbs glucose from the eye fluids, using most of this for its own energy needs. Some of the excess is converted to another sugar called sorbitol.  When there is excess sugar in the eye fluids, there is excess sorbitol produced. Sorbitol pulls water into the lens which in turn disrupts lens clarity and causes the cataract. Fructose is also produced from the excess glucose and also contributes to this water imbibition.

Is it Cruel to Keep a Blind Dog?

Not at all. Dogs do not depend on vision the way humans do. A blind dog can get a long very well as long as the furniture isn’t moved and the dog is properly supervised.

For tips on helping the blind dog adapt:

http://www.ehow.com/how_17612_live-with-blind.html

For a listserv for owners of blind dogs:

www.eGroups.com/list/blinddogs

There are many medical conditions that render a dog blind and as long as the condition is not painful, the dog can live a normal life as a successful and happy pet.

What Kind of After Care is Needed?

The patient will need to wear an Elizabethan collar after surgery to protect the eye. Cortisone eye drops are needed for probably several weeks. Oral anti-inflammatories will be needed for weeks to months after. Drops to keep the pupil dilated will also be used.

What Kind of Complications are Possible?

Complications to consider are:

* Long term uveitis (probably of most concern for diabetic patients)
* Opacification of the lens capsule (usually correctable with laser)
* Corneal clouding (can be managed with 5% saline eye drops 4 to 6 times daily)
* Bleeding into the eye
* Glaucoma
* Retinal detachment (particularly if the cataract is hypermature)