Can You Prevent Cataracts in Dogs? Here’s What I Found Out

© Text & Photos by Yoo Yun

Just thinking about cataracts in dogs makes my heart ache.
Louie is only 16 months old, so it may seem early to worry—but seeing so many dogs around me diagnosed lately made me want to learn more.

Cataract surgery is expensive, and even getting a proper diagnosis can be difficult.
So I looked into what causes cataracts in dogs and whether prevention is even possible.

Understanding Cataracts in Dogs

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions in dogs.
They occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, blocking light and impairing vision.
If left untreated, they can lead to blindness—and the cost of surgery is often very high.

That’s why early detection is critical.
And if there’s anything we can do to reduce the risk? Even better.

What Causes Cataracts in Dogs?

1. Aging

The most common cause of cataracts in dogs is aging.
As dogs get older, their lenses harden and become cloudy.
This typically starts to appear in dogs over the age of seven.

2. Genetics

Certain breeds are more prone to hereditary cataracts, including Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Shih Tzus.

3. Diabetes

Dogs with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk for developing cataracts.

4. Injury

Trauma to the eye can damage the lens, potentially triggering cataract formation.

Cataract Prevention: What You Can Do

Even if you can’t prevent all causes, good care can lower the risk.
Here are some prevention tips I’ve learned:

🟢 A Balanced Diet

Feed your dog foods rich in antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E.
This supports immune health and may help slow lens degeneration.

🟢 Weight & Blood Sugar Management

Obesity can increase the risk of diabetes—and diabetes can cause cataracts.
Keep your dog active and provide nutritious meals.

🟢 Regular Eye Exams

We’re not experts ourselves, so regular vet checkups are essential.
Early detection could mean less invasive care—and lower costs.

🟢 UV Protection

Exposure to sunlight, especially UV rays, can harm a dog’s eyes.
Avoid long exposure, and consider using dog goggles or hats for protection.

🟢 Eye Safety

The eyes are easily injured.
Avoid trauma, keep your dog’s environment safe, and maintain hygiene to prevent infections.

Prevention Begins with Awareness

Learning about the causes of cataracts and how to reduce the risks is the first step.
Regular eye exams, a good diet, and UV protection can make a difference.

Our dogs can’t protect their own eyes—we have to do it for them.

UV Protection: Backed by Research

One study suggests that UV rays may contribute to oxidative stress, leading to cataract formation:
Read the study

That’s why I’m personally committed to giving Louie antioxidant-rich foods, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and making sure he gets regular eye checkups.
Surgery might be possible, but preventing discomfort and stress is much better—for him and for me.

I’ll be sharing more about the goggles Louie uses in my next post.

A Final Thought

Worried about surgery costs?
Uncertain about how to get a proper diagnosis?

You’re not alone.
I hope all our beloved dogs can continue to see the world clearly—with a little help from us.

If you know of other ways to prevent cataracts, please leave a comment 🐶

Original Post (Korean):

https://blog.naver.com/heartkeepers/223682676512