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Cataract Surgery Dilemma

Blind dogs can live happy lives, but surgery can restore sight, making it a bit easier on dog and owner.

Jon Geller, DVM

Q. I have a 10-year-old male Bichon Frise, Willie. He has lost his vision in his right eye due to cataracts and is beginning to lose vision in his left eye. Other than his sight, he is in good health. I have seen an ophthalmologist regarding his vision, and she recommended cataract surgery. According to what I have been reading, there is a 90 to 95 percent success rate in canine cataract surgery.

Since Willie is a Bichon Frise, he has a higher risk factor of retinal detachment. The success rate for his breed is around 70 percent. I have been struggling to decide if I am making the right decision by opting for surgery.

My biggest concern is that the surgery will cause him to become blind prematurely. Of course, if he doesn't have the surgery he will eventually be totally blind, however, he would have a chance to adjust to it more gradually.

The other factor that I am concerned about is glaucoma. He can also get glaucoma as a result of the surgery.

My question to you is, with all of the risk factors involved, do you feel as though cataract surgery is right thing to do? I want my dog to live the rest of his life as a happy, healthy pet.

Dr. Jon Geller A. You do have a challenging decision to make. On one hand, if you do not have the surgery done, Willie will eventually go blind. However, with a 70-percent success rate, there is a possibility of complications, that could cause worse problems.

Cataracts are a gradual solidifying of the lens in the eye, which prevents light from passing through. It is usually a breed-related genetic condition, but can also be the result of diseases like diabetes.

One thing to consider is that cataracts are not a painful condition, and blind dogs can live quite fulfilling lives, just as people do. I believe Willie can live a "happy dog life" without being able to see, if he is otherwise healthy. Dogs rely greatly on their ears and nose for sensory input, compared to people.

However, successful surgery could provide for good vision for the rest of Willie's life, but there are risks with the surgery that could make things worse.

You may want to get a second opinion from another ophthalmologist. Good luck with this difficult decision.

Best,
Jon Geller, DVM

- Get More Advice From Dr. Geller -

Posted: Mon Jan 17 00:00:00 PST 2005

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Cataract Surgery Dilemma

Reader Comments

I found that making the decision to opt for cataract surgery for my Havanese, Rocco, was the most difficult aspect of the ordeal. I spent much time worrying about the possible complications, too.

I eventually concluded that the only way Rocco could have total sight and health in his left eye was if we got the surgery. Without the surgery, he would have been blind in the eye and we'd still have to treat the problems that having cataracts can cause with expensive medications.

It should be noted that Rocco was only 18 months old when he developed the cataract. My animal eye specialist told us that younger dogs had a better chance at a positive outcome.

Rocco had the surgery within two weeks of onset. It went very, very well. Post op care is demanding of the caretaker, but it is worth it.

It has been almost 15 months since the surgery and he's doing great. He still gets check-ups to monitor both eyes and we are thrilled that his right eye remains free of any problems. The left eye requires one eyedrop daily of an anti-inflammatory medication which will probably continue for the rest of his life.

It's a leap of faith that has worked out well for us. One thing to remember, though, is that dogs are incredible creatures. They adapt so well and never feel sorry for themselves. As their humans, we just need to find reassurance in the simple fact that we are always trying to do our best for them including making the tough decisions. Dogs will always accept and understand.

Deborah, Davenport, IA
Posted: 2/21/2009 3:48:11 PM

My beloved Bertha, a Bichon, had cataract surgery in both eyes. She, too, was diabetic. The surgery made a huge difference in her life. She could see well enough to enjoy her walks again, but maybe not well enough to see the bunnies running through the yard. I would certainly recommend it. The only risk with the surgery was the constant glucose monitoring necessary, which, of course, is an extra cost. Bertie was about 6 when she had the surgery, and lived to 13 1/2. I feel that the surgery gave her a better life.

Bear, Grand Rapids, MI
Posted: 1/23/2009 9:13:08 AM

I have a 5 year Chocolate lab. He has diabeties and is on insulin twice a day. Now he is developing cataracts rapidly in both eyes. I am heartbroken by this, he is such a great dog and friend. I want his vision to return if possible, understanding there are risk with surgery, and in his case, he might not be able to have it because of the diabeties. But if I can restore his eyes, then I feel I must try.

Bill, Richmond, VA
Posted: 10/14/2008 8:02:12 PM

I too am going through the same dilemma. I have a 9 yr old Shiba Inu whom I just adore. She has cataracts in both eyes which are blinding her. She does remarkably well indoors. Outside is a different thing. I have been seeing a dog eye dr. I just am afraid that if I put her through with the surgery, complications could occur. She is happy. I still can walk her on leash and she does great as long as I watch her and keep her from walking into things. I am going to probably hold off on this...I feel that as long as she is doing so well indoors and is happy as can be, why take the risks. She even will sniff out her toys and play. We can't play fetch as when she was a puppy, but she does find it and does bring it back. Would love to see more people's comments on here.

Rosie, Perkasie, PA
Posted: 8/1/2008 8:30:38 PM

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