Introduction

The term “cataract” refers to any opacity, regardless of size, of the lens of the eye. Cats of either gender can develop cataracts for a number of different reasons, although in cats most reported cases have been congenital. Certain breeds appear predisposed to developing cataracts, including Persians, Birmans, Himalayans and Domestic Shorthairs. Regardless of the cause of cataracts, the clinical signs are the same.

Symptoms of Cataracts in Cats

The chief complaints by owners of cat with cataracts are cloudy pupils (or cloudy spots in the pupils) and impaired vision. Cataracts can occur in one eye or in both. They can appear suddenly or they can develop over a period of years. In cats, cataracts often are present at birth. The cloudy lens can look “crackled,” but in cats more commonly looks like an icy-blue chip of ice. The cataract may cover the entire pupil, or only part of it. Depending on the severity of the cataract, affected cats will display a range of vision problems from mild impairment to complete blindness. Some of the signs associated with impaired vision include a high-stepped walk, unsure footing, tripping over or bumping into objects, walking into walls, misjudging distances and not recognizing familiar people. However, many cats do not show any clinical signs of decreased vision, especially if only one eye is affected. Cataracts are normally painless but can cause inflammation and result in permanent eye damage.

When feline cataracts are caused by an underlying medical condition, additional clinical signs may occur. Uveitis is an inflammatory ocular condition that commonly is caused by an immune system abnormality. Uveitis can contribute to the development of cataracts. Symptoms of uveitis include squinting, watery eyes, changes in eye color, abnormal pupil size or shape and lens cloudiness.

Prompt medical treatment for any eye disorder is essential to preserve the cat’s vision and relieve pain.