Cataracts in Cats: Understanding Cloudy Vision and Treatment Options

Cataracts In Cats, a condition characterized by the clouding of the eye’s lens, can significantly impact your feline companion’s vision. Just like in humans, the lens within a cat’s eye is crucial for focusing light onto the retina, enabling them to see clearly. When a cataract develops, this normally transparent lens becomes opaque, obstructing the passage of light and leading to varying degrees of visual impairment. From subtle changes to complete blindness, understanding cataracts is vital for every cat owner.

What Are Cataracts in Cats?

To understand cataracts, it’s helpful to know a bit about the eye’s anatomy. The lens is a clear, disc-shaped structure situated behind the iris (the colored part of the eye). Its primary function is to fine-tune the focus of light as it enters the eye, ensuring a sharp image is projected onto the retina at the back of the eye. The retina then converts this light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain, allowing your cat to perceive the world visually.

When a cataract forms, the proteins within the lens begin to clump together, causing the lens to lose its transparency. This clouding effect scatters light as it passes through, preventing it from being properly focused on the retina. Imagine looking through a frosted window – that’s similar to how a cat with cataracts perceives its surroundings.

The severity of vision impairment depends on the size and density of the cataract. Small, early-stage cataracts may cause only minor visual disturbances, while large, mature cataracts can lead to significant vision loss and even blindness. Cataracts can develop in one or both eyes, and they are more frequently observed in older cats due to age-related lens degeneration. However, it’s important to note that cataracts can affect cats of any age, stemming from various underlying causes.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Cataracts in Cats

Identifying cataracts early is crucial for timely intervention and management. While the most obvious sign is a visible cloudiness in one or both eyes, other symptoms may indicate the presence of cataracts, especially in the early stages:

Cloudy or Hazy Appearance in the Eye: This is the hallmark sign of cataracts. The pupil, normally black, may appear whitish, bluish-gray, or opaque.
Bumping into Objects: Cats with vision impairment may start bumping into furniture, walls, or other objects, especially in dimly lit environments or unfamiliar places.
Difficulty Navigating Familiar Surroundings: They might become hesitant to move around, seem disoriented, or get lost in their own home.
Reluctance to Jump or Climb: Activities that require good vision, like jumping onto furniture or climbing stairs, may become challenging.
Difficulty Finding Food or Litter Box: Cats may struggle to locate their food and water bowls or the litter box, particularly if they have been moved or are in a new location.
Changes in Eye Color: Beyond cloudiness, you might notice subtle changes in the overall color of your cat’s eyes.
Increased Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): In some cases, cats with cataracts might become more sensitive to bright light and squint or avoid well-lit areas.

It’s important to differentiate cataracts from normal age-related changes in the lens, such as nuclear sclerosis. Nuclear sclerosis also causes a bluish haze in the lens but is a natural aging process that typically doesn’t significantly impair vision. If you notice any of these symptoms, a veterinary examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Unveiling the Causes of Cataracts in Cats

Cataracts in cats can arise from a variety of underlying factors. Understanding the potential causes is important for both prevention and treatment strategies.

Age-Related Cataracts (Senile Cataracts): Similar to humans, age is a significant factor in cataract development in cats. As cats age, the lens naturally undergoes changes that can lead to clouding. These age-related cataracts, also known as senile cataracts, are more common in senior cats, typically over the age of ten.
Secondary Cataracts due to Uveitis: Chronic uveitis, inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea), is the most frequent cause of cataracts in cats. Uveitis can be triggered by various factors, including infections (like Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), and toxoplasmosis), systemic diseases, and trauma. The inflammation associated with uveitis can damage the lens and lead to cataract formation.
Traumatic Cataracts: Direct injury to the eye, such as a sharp object penetrating the eye or blunt force trauma, can disrupt the lens fibers and induce cataract development. Traumatic cataracts can occur at any age and may develop rapidly after the injury.
Genetic Predisposition: Certain cat breeds have a higher predisposition to inherited cataracts. These breeds include Persians, Birmans, Siamese, Russian Blues, and Himalayans. In these breeds, cataracts may develop at a younger age and are often bilateral (affecting both eyes). Genetic factors can influence lens development and protein stability, increasing the risk of cataracts.
Nutritional Deficiencies in Kittens: In young kittens, severe nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of essential amino acids, can interfere with proper lens development and lead to juvenile cataracts. Ensuring kittens receive a balanced and complete diet is crucial for preventing nutritional cataracts.
Underlying Systemic Diseases: Certain systemic conditions, such as diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure (hypertension), have been linked to cataract formation in cats, although less commonly than in dogs. These diseases can disrupt the metabolic processes within the lens, increasing the risk of clouding.
Radiation Therapy: Cats undergoing radiation therapy for cancers in the head or facial region may develop cataracts as a side effect of radiation exposure.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Cataracts in Cats

Diagnosing cataracts involves a comprehensive ophthalmic examination performed by a veterinarian. The key diagnostic tool is an ophthalmoscope, a handheld instrument that allows the veterinarian to visualize the internal structures of the eye, including the lens.

During the examination, typically conducted in a darkened room to dilate the pupils, the veterinarian will carefully assess the lens for cloudiness and opacity. They will differentiate cataracts from nuclear sclerosis, a common age-related change that causes lens haziness but does not usually impair vision. The ophthalmoscope allows for a detailed view of the lens and helps determine the size, location, and density of the cataract.

If cataracts are diagnosed, the veterinarian will likely recommend further tests to identify any underlying causes. These diagnostic tests may include:

Blood Work: A complete blood count and serum biochemistry profile can help screen for systemic diseases like diabetes, infections, and inflammatory conditions that could be contributing to cataract development.
Urinalysis: Urine tests can provide additional information about kidney function, glucose levels, and overall metabolic health, helping to rule out underlying systemic diseases.
Blood Pressure Measurement: Checking blood pressure is important to assess for hypertension, which has been linked to cataracts in cats.
Specific Tests for Underlying Conditions: Depending on the suspected cause, additional tests may be performed to diagnose conditions like uveitis or infectious diseases such as FeLV, FIV, or FIP.

In some cases, referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist, a specialist in animal eye care, may be recommended for advanced diagnostics and treatment options, particularly if cataract surgery is being considered.

Treatment Options for Cataracts in Cats: Restoring Clear Vision

While there are no medications or eye drops that can dissolve or reverse cataracts, effective treatment options are available to manage cataracts and improve or restore vision in cats.

Cataract Surgery (Phacoemulsification): The most effective treatment for cataracts in cats is surgical removal. The standard surgical procedure is called phacoemulsification. This specialized surgery is performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist and involves using ultrasonic energy to break down the clouded lens into small fragments, which are then gently suctioned out of the eye. In many cases, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the removed natural lens, restoring the eye’s focusing ability and significantly improving vision. Cataract surgery has a high success rate in cats, particularly when performed by experienced surgeons, and can dramatically improve a cat’s quality of life.
Non-Surgical Management: If surgery is not an option due to underlying health conditions, financial constraints, or other reasons, cataracts can be managed non-surgically. This approach focuses on managing any underlying conditions contributing to cataract formation, such as uveitis or systemic diseases. Anti-inflammatory eye drops may be prescribed to manage uveitis and reduce inflammation, which can help slow cataract progression and prevent secondary complications like glaucoma. However, non-surgical management will not remove the cataract or restore clear vision.

It’s crucial to discuss the best treatment options for your cat with your veterinarian or a veterinary ophthalmologist, considering factors such as your cat’s overall health, age, the severity of the cataracts, and your goals for treatment.

Recovery and Aftercare Following Cataract Treatment in Cats

Recovery from cataract surgery typically involves a period of post-operative care to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Following your veterinarian’s instructions diligently is essential for a successful outcome.

Post-Surgery Medications: Your cat will likely need to receive eye drops, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, for several weeks after surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Administering these medications as prescribed is crucial.
Elizabethan Collar (Cone): To prevent your cat from pawing or rubbing at their eyes, which could disrupt healing, an Elizabethan collar (cone) will be necessary for a period of time, typically 1-2 weeks.
Restricted Activity: Limiting your cat’s activity level during the initial recovery period is important to prevent trauma to the surgical site. Avoid strenuous play and jumping.
Regular Follow-Up Exams: Scheduled follow-up appointments with the veterinary ophthalmologist are necessary to monitor healing, assess vision improvement, and address any potential complications.

For cats managed non-surgically, ongoing management focuses on addressing underlying conditions and monitoring cataract progression. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to track any changes and manage secondary issues like glaucoma.

Regardless of the treatment approach, adapting your home environment can significantly improve the quality of life for cats with vision impairment.

Maintain Consistency: Keep furniture, food and water bowls, and the litter box in the same locations to minimize disorientation.
Eliminate Hazards: Remove or pad sharp corners and edges, block off stairs or balconies, and ensure safe access to all essential resources.
Provide Safe Spaces: Create comfortable and safe resting areas that are easily accessible.
Use Scent and Sound Cues: Use distinct scents or sounds to help your cat navigate and locate resources.
Verbal Communication: Talk to your cat frequently to reassure them and provide auditory cues.

With proper care and environmental adjustments, cats with cataracts, even those with significant vision loss, can live happy, fulfilling lives.

Cataracts in Cats FAQs

At what age do cats typically get cataracts?

While age-related cataracts are more common in senior cats over 10 years old, cats of any age can develop cataracts due to various underlying causes such as trauma, uveitis, or genetic predisposition. Even kittens can be diagnosed with cataracts, often due to nutritional deficiencies or inherited conditions.

What are the early signs of cataracts in cats?

Early signs of cataracts can be subtle and may include a slightly cloudy appearance in the eye, bumping into objects, hesitancy in unfamiliar settings, and difficulty finding food or the litter box. Any change in your cat’s eyes or behavior warrants a veterinary check-up.

Can cataracts in cats be prevented?

While age-related and genetically predisposed cataracts may not be preventable, you can reduce the risk of cataracts caused by other factors. Promptly treating uveitis and other underlying health conditions, preventing eye trauma, and ensuring kittens receive proper nutrition can help minimize the risk of cataract development. Regular veterinary check-ups can aid in early detection and management of potential cataract-causing conditions.

How much does cataract surgery cost for cats?

The cost of cataract surgery in cats can vary depending on geographic location, the veterinary ophthalmologist’s fees, and the complexity of the case. Generally, cataract surgery for one eye can range from $3,000 to $5,000, and surgery for both eyes can be significantly more. It’s best to consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist for a precise cost estimate.

Can cats live a normal life with cataracts?

Yes, many cats with cataracts can live full and happy lives, even with some degree of vision loss. Cats are highly adaptable and rely on their other senses, such as hearing and smell, to navigate their environment. With appropriate home modifications and loving care, vision-impaired cats can thrive. Cataract surgery can significantly improve vision and quality of life for suitable candidates.

References

Glaze, M. Congenital and hereditary ocular abnormalities in cats. Clinical Techniques in Small Animal Practice. 2005.

Kennard, G. DVM360. Selected lens diseases and cataract treatment. DVM360. 2009.

Kern, T. Feline Cataracts. Cornell Feline Health Center.

Nygren, K. et al. Hereditary cataracts in Russian Blue cats. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 2018.

WRITTEN BY
Melissa Boldan, DVM
Veterinarian

Dr. Melissa Boldan graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. She initially practiced mixed animal…