Pet cataracts are the leading cause of impaired vision and blindness in pets today.  It describes a loss of transparency of the eye lens.  Cataract formation damages the sulfur-containing proteins in the lens thus, the damaged lens cannot transmit light effectively to the retina. 

Some causes of feline and canine cataracts include:

• Aging
• Diabetes
• Heavy metal poisoning
• Exposure to radiation
• Injury to the eye
• Use of certain drugs such as steroids.

The main symptom of a developing cataract is a gradual painless loss of vision. 

Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

Diet is very important in preventing cataracts, as food nourishes the entire system.

Eliminate animal products in the diet (poultry-by-product meal, meat meal, meat-by-products, etc.)  Avoid dairy products, saturated fats, and any fats or oils that have been subjected to heat, whether by cooking or processing.  These foods promote formation of free radicals, which can damage the lens.  Use cold-pressed vegetable oils only.

A homemade diet is highly recommended, however, if this is not possible I suggest a high quality dry or canned food.  For a list of best and worst dog/cat foods or homemade recipes, email corinne@purelypets.com.

If you decide on home cooking concentrate on fiber rich plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes.  Serve filtered water avoiding fluoridated and chlorinated water.  Even water from deeply driven wells may not be safe, since many underground water sources are contaminated with toxic residue.

Supplementation

Pet cataracts can be very frustrating to treat and it is difficult to get adequate medication to the area because the topical medications that are applied to the eye are not well absorbed through the cornea.

Cataracts can create a tremendous financial burden on the owner.  Therefore, it is important to feed a high quality diet and supplement the diet before your pet suffers from the beginnings of cataracts or any other health problem.

The products recommended include:

Mega Pet

Mega Pet contains many of the nutrients essential for cataract control.  Some of the ingredients include:  Cooper and Manganese which are important for proper healing and retarding the growth of cataracts.

Glutamic Acid — An antioxidant that aids in maintaining a healthy lens protects against toxins and is shown to slow the progression of cataracts.

Selenium — Maintaining proper selenium levels appears to be especially important, and studies have shown that low selenium can greatly promote cataract formation. 

Super C 2000

Studies have shown that pets given foods or supplements high in vitamins C have a much lower risk for developing cataracts than do pets with lower intakes.  Several clinical studies demonstrate that vitamin C supplementation halts cataract progression and in some cases significantly improves vision. 

Eyebright

A natural herbal relief for the eyes that can be fed in the diet to strengthen the eyes or used as an eyewash.  Eyebright stimulates the circulation of blood and nutrients to the eyes, helping to protect them from cataracts and glaucoma.

Exercise

Exercise is very important, however, direct sunlight hitting the lens of the eye will damage it.  Pets love being out in the sun on a beautiful day, and they should not be denied.  However, be aware that at certain times of the day, sunlight is very dangerous.  The sun is most damaging in the middle of the day, therefore, early morning and evening are a good time to take your pet out to exercise.

IMPORTANT!  The recommendations in this article are general suggestions for treating your pet naturally.  It is important to look at each pet individually and determine what works best for YOUR pet. 

I would highly consider a phone consultation.  A consultation will include a personalized diet and holistic program suggestions, all custom-tailored to your pet’s personal needs. This is particularly imperative in pets with complicated health issues, or if you’ve done outside reading and have conflicting information.

You can read about our phone consultation.   

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Purely Pets today!