Blindness is a condition in which vision is lost in one or both eyes. There are multiple underlying causes of blindness in pets, and the condition can be progressive or sudden in onset.
Causes of Blindness
There are numerous underlying causes of blindness in pets. These include trauma, infection, and disorders of the eye such as glaucoma, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Blindness can also occur as a result of serious conditions including diabetes, hypertension, and neurologic diseases. In addition, the condition can be caused by genetic factors or old age. Blindness may also be idiopathic, this means that it has no identifiable cause.
Symptoms of Blindness
It is important to visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of blindness.
- Clumsiness
- Disorientation
- Loss of coordination
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Cloudy eyes
- Enlarged pupils
Diagnosis of Blindness
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. Please provide detailed information to aid the diagnostic process.
Your veterinarian will then carry out a complete physical examination of your pet, including an eye examination and neurologic examination. These tests will help identify clinical signs of vision loss or blindness. Other diagnostic tests will also be performed to rule out underlying conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Routine tests include a urinalysis, complete blood count, and blood pressure test.
Other tests that may be used to help diagnose blindness include CT or MRI scans of the eye and skull, ocular ultrasounds, and corneal cytology (microscopic analysis of cells taken from the cornea).
Treatment of Blindness
In some cases, the underlying cause of blindness can be treated and normal vision may return. However, blindness is often irreversible, and many animals with the condition will require lifelong supportive care. Fortunately, it is possible for most cats and dogs to adapt well to permanent blindness. Your veterinarian will advise you on treatment and supportive care depending on your pet’s specific needs.
Prevention of Blindness
Blindness in pets can be difficult to prevent since there are numerous potential causes of the condition. We recommend feeding a healthy, balanced diet and providing plenty of exercises to support your pet’s health. Careful monitoring of your pet’s weight is also vital to help prevent conditions such as diabetes that can lead to blindness. Finally, please schedule regular appointments with your veterinarian so your pet’s overall health can be continuously monitored.
