Has Anyone Had Cataract Surgery for Your Dog and Was It Worth It?
Two experienced pet owners share their experiences and insights on cataract surgery for dogs, a procedure that has been performed in the United States since around 1970.
Personal Experience: Diesel the Labrador
Bilateral cataract surgery was performed on my Labrador, Diesel, when he was 3 years old. He had been diabetic for 18 months and was rapidly losing his sight. Often, blind dogs manage well, but Diesel became afraid and fear aggressive due to his inability to see the people in his environment.
The surgery was extremely successful. He had great vision for the remainder of his life. Despite passing away at 11 due to other catastrophic medical issues, his eyes continued to work as intended. Dog cataract surgery has been successfully performed in the US since around 1970, and with advancements in veterinary medicine, the outcome can be very positive.
Professional Expertise: An Ophthalmologist’s Perspective
As a board-certified ophthalmologist, I am restricted to only practice on humans, but this has given me a unique perspective on the benefits and adjustments required for dogs undergoing cataract surgery. My 14-year-old blind toy poodle, Teddy, had both eyes operated on by a veterinary ophthalmologist three years ago. He developed glaucoma, dry eyes, and a temporary corneal ulcer, all of which were successfully managed with eye drops. Teddy now sees well out of one eye and has some vision in the other. Healing from cataract surgery can be a gradual process, with eye conditions such as glaucoma requiring ongoing management.
Our older, blind toy poodle who was too old and in poor health did not receive the surgery. He became withdrawn and wandered around, breaking our hearts. This scenario highlights a crucial point: not all dogs are suitable candidates for cataract surgery, especially those who are older or in poor health.
Guiding Principles for Your Decision
When advising clients, I recommend the following:
If your dog is younger, consider cataract removal seriously. For geriatric or older dogs, cataract surgery might not be the best option. If your dog has gradually lost vision, they may adapt well and live just fine. You do not need to remove both cataracts; surgery on just one eye can restore sufficient vision for normal function.The paramount advice is to have a board-certified ophthalmologist perform the procedure to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.
In conclusion, cataract surgery for dogs can be a life-changing procedure that improves quality of life significantly when done by a reputable and experienced veterinary ophthalmologist. Consideration of the dog's age, overall health, and the gradual progression of the cataracts is essential. Consulting with a professional can provide valuable insights and ensure a successful outcome.