You have probably heard of glaucoma. It is a degenerative disease that affects the optic nerve and, if not treated in time, can cause permanent blindness. This disease also affects both humans and pets. Be very careful and go to the vet regularly!
According to the Ophthalmological Veterinary Institute, glaucoma progressively damages the optic nerve. This condition can damage both eyes equally, causing irreversible blindness if not treated in time. For this reason, specialists recommend frequent check-ups , since some diseases, such as diabetes, could worsen glaucoma.
On the other hand, it must be taken into account that some dog breeds, such as the Cocker Spaniel, the Maltese Bichon or the French Bulldog are more prone to developing this disease. Likewise, border collie have a greater predisposition to glaucoma because they have a hereditary genetic mutation. This is the reason why veterinarians also advise genetic testing of dogs .
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects both animals and humans. This condition produces an accumulation of fluids in the eye (aqueous humor) and, due to this, the intraocular pressure progressively increases . The visible part of the eye is made up of the iris (colored part), the pupil, the sclera (white part), the drainage channels and the ciliary bodies.
The ciliary bodies are responsible for producing aqueous humor, a liquid that serves to protect the eye. In a healthy eye, this fluid is renewed and is eliminated through the drainage channels. However, when these channels become clogged, excess fluid is produced inside the eye, increasing intraocular pressure and causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve.
Glaucoma in cats
If you have a pussycat at home, you should think that they can also suffer from this disease. Also, like dogs and people, glaucoma can cause complete blindness. Many pet owners go to the vet when their furry dog has noticeably lost his vision and the eye has turned blue. Don’t make that mistake and pay attention to the signs!
Likewise, remember that although it is impossible to modify the genetic factor (some kittens are more predisposed to suffer from it), you can strengthen your cat’s immune system through a balanced diet, physical exercise and routine visits to the vet.
Glaucoma symptoms in pets
Although the most visible symptoms appear when the disease is very advanced , in general, both dogs and cats present the following signs:
- Sensitive eyes
- Vomiting and dizziness
- Headache
- Cloudy eyes
- Dilated pupils
- Difficulty seeing
- Walk irregularly
- Behavior changes
In addition, the furry could be more skittish or not feel like playing as usual. It may also hide from humans or react inappropriately when stroked near the eye area or head.
Treatment
For now, it is impossible to regain vision lost due to glaucoma. Therefore, it is essential to emphasize the early detection of this disease. In the most extreme cases, some specialists opt for eye surgery that can be carried out using two techniques: with a diode laser or with drainage valves to reduce the fluid that the eye contains. Sometimes veterinarians combine both methods to maintain the furry’s vision for as long as possible.
Remember that, although you cannot do much to prevent glaucoma, you must keep your dog’s deworming and vaccinations letter up to date to protect him from possible complications. The most important thing is your health!
If you think that your pet has this disease, do not hesitate and go to the vet as soon as possible. They will always recommend the best and seek the most appropriate treatment taking into account the needs of your dog or cat.
