Cataracts and nuclear sclerosis (or lenticular sclerosis) are two types of eye conditions that can cause similar symptoms in pets. In this fact sheet, we’ll take a look at the causes and symptoms of these commonly confused conditions to help you distinguish between them.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and opaque. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes and are more common in dogs than cats. The condition is progressive and can lead to a partial loss of vision or complete blindness in pets.
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts can be caused by factors including diabetes, eye trauma, exposure to toxins, damage from UV light, and infections. Certain breeds of dogs and cats are predisposed to the condition. These include cocker spaniels, Labrador retrievers, Boston terriers, and Persian cats. Although cataracts are usually seen in older animals, they can develop in pets of all ages.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
The most common symptom of cataracts is a cloudy or bluish appearance in the eye. Pets with cataracts may also display symptoms of vision loss such as poor coordination or clumsiness. In addition, you may notice eye irritation or discharge from the eyes. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if you are concerned about your pet’s eyes so the cause of their symptoms can be diagnosed and treated.
What Is Nuclear Sclerosis?
Nuclear sclerosis, also known as lenticular sclerosis, is an age-related condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and discolored. It is common in older pets and is often mistaken for cataracts.
Nuclear sclerosis does not affect vision severely in most animals. However, it is important to visit your veterinarian if your pet has cloudy eyes so more serious conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma can be ruled out.
What Causes Nuclear Sclerosis?
As an animal ages, fibers on the outer edge of the lens compress the inner lens causing it to harden and become opaque. This aging change of the lens in known as nuclear sclerosis.
What Are the Symptoms of Nuclear Sclerosis?
The most common symptom of nuclear sclerosis is cloudiness and bluish discoloration in the eye. Although both eyes are usually affected, pets with the condition rarely experience severe loss of vision.
The Bottom Line
Although the symptoms of cataracts and nuclear sclerosis may be similar, they can impact your pet in very different ways. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if you have any concerns about your pet’s vision so the underlying cause of their symptoms can be diagnosed and treated.
