Cataracts result from a breakdown of a dog’s eye-lens tissue. The lens fibers become misaligned, clouding the lenses. Surgery is the preferred cataract treatment. Nonsurgical cataract treatments may improve cataracts without the risk and cost of surgery.
Benefits
Nonsurgical cataract treatment avoids the glaucoma, infection and retinal-detachment risks that affect between five percent and 10 percent of dogs undergoing surgery.
Research
A 2006 study of 30 dogs at Cambridge University’s Department of Veterinary Medicine found that after eight weeks, a prescription of two-percent antioxidant-enhanced carnosine eyedrops significantly improved immature cataracts.
Types
These prescription eyedrops are available through a veterinarian or online, and one-percent carnosine over-the-counter eyedrops are available from online vendors, including wisechoicemedicine.com.
Cost
The 2009 online price for prescription carnosine-based eyedrops at one website is $115.98 for a 1/2-ounce bottle, enough to treat both dog's eyes for two months according to the manufacturer. The over-the-counter drops cost $43.95 for 1/3 ounce, with discounts on larger purchases.
Other Treatments
Adding vitamins C and E to your pet's food, says Dr. Ron Hines, D.V.M., of 2ndchance.com, may slow the progression of his cataracts. He also recommends feeding a balanced diet and minimizing the time your dog spends in the bright sun.
References
Photo Credits
-
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of stevegatto2
Writer Bio
Passionate for travel and the well-written word, Judy Wolfe is a professional writer with a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Cal Poly Pomona and a certificate in advanced floral design. Her thousands of published articles cover topics from travel and gardening to pet care and technology.
