Disorder - Cataract

Organ Systems Involved
Nervous/sensory

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Microphthalmus, lysosomal storage disease, microphakia, Chediak-Higashi syndrome

Alternative Names
Lenticular opacity, lens opacity

Presenting Signs

The first sign is a cloudiness of the lens (part of the eye that focuses light). This is often first noticed while the cat is quite young. Vision may be affected as the cloudiness spreads to affect more of the lens, and the lens becomes more opaque. The owner may notice signs of vision loss. Signs include difficulty seeing in dim light, failure to recognise familiar people and objects until quite close, bumping into objects and misjudging distances. Cataracts can progress to cause complete blindness. Vets can classify cataracts based on the age of onset, position within the lens, stage of development, appearance and consistency. These factors will determine whether they can be surgically corrected. Diseases that can occur secondary to cataracts include: uveitis (inflammation within the eye), glaucoma (increased pressure within the eye) and retinal detachment (part of the eye that converts light into nerve impulses separates from the back of the eye).

Cats at Risk

Inbred cats have an increased risk of cataracts. Cats with multiple congenital eye defects are also at increased risk.

Treatment

Surgical. Surgical correction is an option if the cataract is interfering with vision currently, or is anticipated to do so in the future. Surgery aims to restore vision, and is best done as early as possible. Rarely, cataracts have been reported to resolve on their own.

PubMed References
Cataract

Contributor
Kate Hudson