Cataracts in dogs: points to check before surgery
Early diagnosis and treatment are important so that the dog does not suffer permanent vision loss. The surgery is similar to that for humans. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a prosthetic one. However, a number of aspects must be checked before performing cataract surgery in dogs.
Before cataract surgery in dogs
In principle, the following checks are necessary:
- A comprehensive eye exam. This is used to decide whether the eye is in condition to be operated.
- An electroretinogram to assess the functionality of the retina
- An ocular ultrasound to examine the fundus of the eye. These two tests form the basis for ensuring that the patient will regain their vision after removing the cataract.
As cataract surgery in dogs is performed under general anaesthesia, the dog must undergo a basic preoperative assessment. This includes a blood test, blood pressure measurement and a review of the dog’s medical history.
A series of changes can be introduced prior to surgery which will improve postoperative recovery. For example, patients can be familiarised with wearing a cone. If the dog wears it for short periods before surgery, the experience will be less frightening during the postoperative period.
Avoid complications
Performing surgery on cataracts in dogs in good time prevents complications such as eye infections or inflammation. For example, if the cataract has been left to evolve over a considerable period, it will become very hard and surgery is much more difficult and there is an increased risk for complications.
Cataract surgery requires general anaesthesia. The rates of complications is low at around just 5%.
Postoperative recommendations for cataracts in dogs
- Avoid lengthy periods of exercise: the dog needs to rest in order to recover. Very restless dogs should wear a harness when taken out for a walk to prevent any brisk movements. The patient should not run or chase a ball.
- Use the protective cone: it prevents any damage from scratching. Ideally, patients should wear the cone for 4 weeks.
- Adhere to the medicines prescribed by the vet to prevent the onset of any infections. It is also important to monitor for the possible appearance of sensitivity reactions. Consult the vet if there is discharge from the eye or if it is irritated and swollen. It could be an adverse-drug reaction with a very simple solution: changing to another medication.
- Avoid bathing dogs for up to 3 weeks following cataract surgery in dogs.
- Sources: mascotafiel.com and oftalmologiaveterinaria.es
