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One
of the most remarkable things about companion animals
is their ability to adapt. There are three-legged
dogs who can even outrun their four-legged counterparts.
And by relying more on their senses of smell and
hearing, many pets cope very well with gradual blindness.
Permanent loss of vision can result from a number
of disorders. Animals with diabetes mellitus, for
example, are more prone to develop cataracts, which
can lead to blindness. Vision problems can show
up after injury or illness, such as a stroke or
eye infection that is left untreated. Animals suffering
from advanced glaucoma may need to have one or both
eyes removed. And many dogs and cats develop blindness
as a result of old age.
Inbred Causes of Dog & Cat Blindness
The
effects of selective breeding have left many canines
with serious eye disorders that can lead to blindness.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy causes the retina to
deteriorate. Although this disease has been seen
in many breeds, it is more common in cocker spaniels,
collies, Irish setters, Norwegian elkhounds, schnauzers
and poodles. Collie Eye Anomaly is a disease of
the retina that can result in blindness in collie
breeds. Retinal dysplasia, too, often seen in beagles
and Labrador retrievers, is an inherited disorder
that causes permanent vision loss. Canines suffering
from this disorder may exhibit a folding or displacement
of the retina. It is important that dogs who suffer
from these inherited diseases are not used for breeding
purposes.
Cat & Dog Blindness May Be Gradual
Gradual
loss of vision is often difficult to detect in pets,
but if you notice that your cat is misjudging heights
and bumping into furniture, or that your dog bumps
into walls or other objects, your pet may have a
problem with his vision. Take note as well if your
pet seems confused in strange surroundings or is
reluctant to move from one spot. ANIMED recommends
that you see your veterinarian immediately if you
think your pet is suffering from a loss of vision.
If
your animal is diagnosed with gradual, permanent
loss of vision, you'll need to create a safe environment
for him. This means keeping your home stable and
obstacle-free. Try not to rearrange furniture, and
do not leave boxes, toys, or other objects on the
floor.
Special Care for Dog & Cat Blindness
To
make your presence known, greet your pet verbally
when entering the room. Always speak to a blind
animal before petting or touching him. You may need
to block access to stairs, and either carry or lead
your dog up and down stairs when needed. And most
important of all, you'll need to give your pet lots
of extra attention and tender loving care. This
is especially true for elderly animals who may also
be suffering from hearing loss and are having a
more difficult time adjusting.
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