How can you tell the difference between nuclear sclerosis and cataracts in dogs?

How can you tell the difference between nuclear sclerosis and cataracts in dogs?

A young dog’s normal lens is clear, but exhibits a greenish shine when illuminated. The lens of an eye with cataracts or nuclear sclerosis appears cloudy. In ambient light, a sclerotic lens has an even, pearly opacity with a grayish-to-bluish tinge.

Is lenticular sclerosis the same as cataracts?

This condition is not the same as cataracts. Cataracts are white and opaque and represent a change in the ability of light to penetrate to the retina. “Lenticular sclerosis appears as an evenly gray, rounded opacity (cloudiness) in the center of the lens, and is most easily observed when the pupil is dilated.”

Is nuclear sclerosis a cataract in dogs?

Owners typically notice a cloudiness or blue-grey appearance to their older dog’s eyes. In geriatric patients, nuclear sclerosis can become more advanced with increased cloudiness of the lens, which is commonly mistaken for a cataract. Unlike cataracts, nuclear sclerosis does not significantly affect vision.

Does lenticular sclerosis cause blindness in dogs?

This density is called lenticular or nuclear sclerosis. Lenticular sclerosis is a product of aging and usually begins to appear in middle-aged to senior dogs. The condition is painless and does not lead to blindness.

How is nuclear sclerosis treated in dogs?

Nuclear sclerosis is a change in the lens of the eye that normally occurs with aging. There is no treatment needed because the condition does not cause serious problems, but it might be a good idea to discuss your dog’s aging eyes with your veterinarian, so that you know what to expect as your dog grows older.

Does lenticular sclerosis affect vision?

Fortunately for your pet, vision is not drastically affected by lenticular sclerosis until your dog gets much older. Lenticular sclerosis is seen in many dogs as they age. Lenticular sclerosis is one such change which makes the pupil of your canine’s eye appear hazy or cloudy. Vet bills can sneak up on you.

When do dogs develop lenticular sclerosis?

around 6-8 years of
Most dogs start to develop lenticular sclerosis around 6-8 years of age, although many owners don’t notice the change until a dog is older and it has progressed and become more evident. The good news is that lenticular sclerosis is not painful, does not significantly affect a dog’s vision, and requires no treatment.

How do I know if my dog has nuclear sclerosis?

What are Common Signs of Nuclear Sclerosis? Owners typically notice a cloudiness or blue-grey appearance to their older dog’s eyes. In geriatric patients, nuclear sclerosis can become more advanced with increased cloudiness of the lens, which is commonly mistaken for a cataract.

When does lenticular sclerosis Start dogs?

Lenticular sclerosis typically gives the pupil a cloudy, blue-grey-white appearance. Most dogs start to develop lenticular sclerosis around 6-8 years of age, although many owners don’t notice the change until a dog is older and it has progressed and become more evident.

When do dogs get lenticular sclerosis?

around 6-8 years