Cataract in dogs is a common condition as they age.
When it affected my own four-legged companion, I searched for natural solutions to slow its progression and improve his comfort.
Here is my experience, my advice, and the natural alternatives that helped my dog.
Contents
- 1 What is cataract in dogs?
- 2 What are the early signs of cataract?
- 3 What are the causes of cataract in dogs?
- 4 What are the treatment options for cataract?
- 5 How to slow down cataract?
- 6 Cataract in dogs: What natural treatment?
- 7 What eye drops for a dog with cataract?
- 8 Treating cataract in dogs naturally
- 9 The progression of my dog’s cataract
- 10 Your questions about cataract in dogs
What is cataract in dogs?
Cataract manifests as cloudiness of the lens, making vision blurry or even nonexistent.
This problem can be due to age, diabetes, genetic predisposition, or injury.
What are the early signs of cataract?
It’s no different from humans.
A white spot appears in the dog’s eye (or both), which is the clouding of the lens, the structure located behind the pupil.
This cloudiness causes blurry vision, and as the lens loses transparency, the vision worsens.
Over time, vision loses sharpness, and colors and contrasts fade.
Gradually, the white cloud thickens, and vision becomes more and more impaired.
What are the causes of cataract in dogs?
Cataracts in dogs can result from various factors, including aging, congenital issues, secondary conditions like diabetes, cortisone-based treatments, eye injuries, or excessive UV sun exposure.
Identifying the underlying cause is essential in tailoring a suitable treatment plan.
What are the treatment options for cataract?
Just like in humans, the veterinarian first stabilizes the situation by treating any aggravating factors, such as dry eyes, with antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection.
If the cataract is linked to an underlying condition, like diabetes, the vet will prioritize controlling it.
Then, dog owners have two choices:
- Accept the gradual loss of their dog’s vision, which may lead to total blindness.
- Opt for an invasive and expensive surgery, with hopes of satisfactory vision recovery.
If you are considering surgery, be aware that the operation costs on average $1,500 to $2,000 per eye, with an additional $400 if an artificial lens (intraocular implant) is needed to correct vision.
The procedure, done under a surgical microscope and general anesthesia, lasts about 20 minutes.
Without complications, the dog can return home the same day.
Post-operative care requires two months of treatment with anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops to be administered daily.
⚠️ Risks exist: Although common, the surgery is not without possible complications, such as implant displacement, retinal detachment, uveitis, glaucoma, infection, or corneal edema.
How to slow down cataract?
If surgical intervention doesn’t appeal to you, like it didn’t to me, partly because of its uncertain outcome and partly because you're concerned about anesthesia for an aging pet, you’re not going to enjoy standing by helplessly as you watch your dog lose both vision and joy of life.
The veterinarian will assure you a hundred times that "it's not a problem for them, their sense of smell helps them maintain their bearings."
True, but their enthusiasm, yes!
And we can understand that...
Cataract in dogs: What natural treatment?
Targeted dietary supplements
Do not look for products intended for pets in this area, rely on products that are commonly found in our pharmacies, intended for macular degeneration.
Why?
Because they contain everything you need to fight free radicals and nourish the eye more reliably.
Personally, I use a supplement consisting of:
- DHA, a polyunsaturated fatty acid belonging to the Omega 3 family, present in the composition of the eye and helps visual health
- Lutein is a carotenoid pigment that is found in very strong concentrations in the retina
- Zeaxanthin, another carotenoid related to lutein
- Zinc is an essential mineral that sends vitamin A synthesized by the liver to the retina to produce protective melanin for the eye
- Essential vitamins for eye health: vitamin C, vitamin E
The product I use comes in capsule form.
My dog weighing less than 10kg (22 pounds), I open it and half-empty it in his food every two or three days.
If you are interested in this practical product due to its complete formula which avoids multiple purchases, try it now (aff)
If you prefer a cataract supplement for dogs, here are the 3 most valuable :
- Ocu-Glo vision for small dogs
- Vision Bites by Zesty Paws
- Vision Supplement by Nutrition Strength (aff)
Antioxidants beneficial for vision
- Blueberries for vision
This small fruit contains a characteristic dark blue pigment. It is made up of flavonoids like quercetin and tannins.
The medicinal properties of bilberries have been known for millennia, they are antioxidants, fight diabetes and provide vascular protection.
It also has virtues for eye health as demonstrated by an Italian study published in 1989 which concluded that there was a significant reduction in the progression of cataracts in 48 of the 50 patients tested.
My dog is supplemented with blueberry powder each day in his food (aff).
- BLUEBERRY POWDER: Supports antioxidant and polyphenolic activity in your diet. Consume 1-2 times...
- DRIED WILD BLUEBERRIES: Excellent source of fiber. Add fiber and the other benefits of Wild...
- Benefits of carrot
Carrots, rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A essential for eye health, are beneficial for your dog’s eyes.
They help manage cataract.
What eye drops for a dog with cataract?
N-Acetyl-L-Carnosine eye drops (NAC)
N-Acetyl-L-Carnosine or N.A.C (not to be confused with N-acetyl-cysteine) is a naturally occurring compound related to carnosine.
A Russian study published in 2012 demonstrated the effectiveness of eye drops containing 1% NAC on patients with cataracts.
Can-C Eye Drops for cataracts in dogs (aff)
My dog has been getting 1 drop in each eye three times a day for over 6 months.
In 4 months, the white haze started to disappear and he regained his ferocious appetite.
Does that mean he was depressed?...
However, while the improvement was clearly visible, it was not sufficient for my taste.
As I researched further, I learned that there was the same type of cataract drops for dogs but containing 2 or 4% NAC.
And I tried the adventure of 4,5% Acetyl L Carnosine (aff)
So I started quietly with a 1% solution to get his eyes used to it twice a day then added a 4% solution once a day.
I see an obvious improvement, my dog finding his black eyes and moving without hitting any obstacle.
You can also try lanosterol eye drops, a non-invasive remedy for cataracts in dogs.
Harnessing the power of lanosterol, a natural compound, it effectively dissolves protein clusters responsible for cataract formation.
But sadly, they are quite expensive.
Lumen Pro - Lanosterol + NAC eye drops (aff)
Homeopathic Cineraria Maritima drops
Note that there are other interesting eye drops for dogs with cataracts that have given encouraging results.
This is Cineraria Maritima homeopathic drops, a perennial plant with silver leaves (aff)
There are now part of this natural cataract treatment for my dog (if you do the same, choose the alcohol-free version like those mentioned above) with a drop per eye in the evening.
Again, I'm testing with him.
These eye drops do not sting the eyes and provide hydration and visual comfort.
Castor oil for cataracts in dogs
As strange as it may sound, the trick of castor oil directly into the eye is often given in an attempt to combat cataracts.
I also test it personally and notice a marked improvement in color perception and sharpness.
I cannot confirm its effectiveness but if the oil is well-chosen, cold-pressed, pure and hexane-free like the one I use, it obviously nourishes the eye and fights dry eyes (aff).
My dog gets a drop in each eye before bed every other day.
Treating cataract in dogs naturally
What is the progression of cataract 6 months later?
First of all, I would like to point out that I started by testing all the eye drops myself to assess their impact on the eye.
Suffering from severe dry eye, I can guarantee that they have helped me a lot and in fact improved my myopic vision.
Note that all the products mentioned in this article are not intended for animals but for human and that in my opinion, they can surely help people with advanced dry eye or early-stage cataracts.
No product has had any negative side effects and over the days I see only improvements in my dog's behavior, especially during his nocturnal outings.
He has regained his zest for life and, as if to thank me, keeps staring at me insistently...
It's up to you ... but keep in mind that this is a precise long-term treatment that should never be stopped.
Evolution is slow.
The progression of my dog’s cataract
What are the advancements and treatment progress in 2021?
This natural treatment for cataracts in dogs is giving more and more convincing results from month to month.
That's why I want to check in regularly to update you and share treatment adjustments as we progress.
This August, my dog is entering the ninth month of care, he is maintaining his eyesight and the cataract has improved.
Of course, it would be a lie to write that he has regained full function, he is and will remain presbyopic (like all dogs) but he only bumps into objects more rarely and only at night.
On the other hand, his view from afar (and by day) is maintained, he always runs after cats!
His treatment has changed somewhat.
Morning and evening, he receives 2 drops of NAC eye drops (Can C) in each eye.
A third dose is taken with NAC 4% eye drops, one drop in each eye.
He also receives two drops in each eye at bedtime of Cineraria Maritima eye drops.
The use of these eye drops has apparently slowed the progression of the white veil, his eyes are becoming more and more clear.
Also at bedtime and about 10 minutes later, he gets a drop of castor oil in each eye every 2-3 days.
I also added colloidal silver sprays to this routine on her eyelids (always at bedtime).
The antiviral, antifungal, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory properties of the colloidal silver that I put on the hairs on her eyelids markedly improved irritation and a tendency for conjunctivitis.
The action time of the product housed in its bristles before drying is optimal.
Orally, he continues to take blueberry daily and PreserVision every 2-3 days.
I plan to introduce a new essential antioxidant, Coenzyme Q10 30mg in the coming weeks because it is an essential nutrient in the protection of the eye (and the heart).
See you soon for the rest of the adventure.
Follow-up and treatment progress in 2023
Hello, we are still here!
More than a year after my last update, a few words to give you news about my doggy and his sight.
So, then, does he still see?
The answer is yes, he still sees even if everything is not perfect.
The major difficulty for him remains at night because his night vision is the most affected.
But wait, he still navigates the dark with ease, even if on some days he loses his bearings.
Remember, however, that my dog does not only suffer from cataracts but from a more complex condition, progressive retinal atrophy.
Without any care, he would already be blind without a doubt.
In terms of treatment, he is entitled to one blueberry capsule a day as well as a PreserVision soft gel once or twice a week and a Coenzyme Q10 30mg capsule twice a week.
Eye drops are administered every day without exception and in particular, Nac 4% eye drops 2 drops in each eye, 4 times a day.
He receives a drop of castor oil in each eye before bedtime 3 times a week.
In recent months, I have introduced a very effective eye drop discovered by chance, it is Virbac VT Phak eye drops (switch to amazon.fr) designed to fight against degeneration of the lens.
This is a product well known to veterinarians with an antioxidant effect, which provides the necessary nutrients for a crystal clear lens.
You can even add the VT Phak syrup (switch to amazon.fr) for global antioxidant action, targeting of course the eyes but also the intestinal flora and the immune defenses.
These products are amazingly effective and combined with NAC eye drops, the results are impressive.
The lens clears up more quickly and tearing is definitely stopped, the hairs under the eyes are no longer stained.
VT Phak eye drops should be instilled with one drop in each eye twice a day for 20 days a month without ever stopping treatment.
To tell the truth, I proceed differently by administering a drop in each eye twice a day each day of the week then taking a break on the weekend.
This is where we are.
Obviously, not everything is perfect and his initial sight has not been restored, but I started this treatment at the end of 2020 and my dog still sees normally during the day even if his night vision is imperfect. And I insist, he should be blind, he's not.
In summary, the current treatment is:
Cataracts eye drops:
- Acetyl L carnosine 4% eye drops: 2 drops in each eye 4 times a day
- VT Phak eye drops: 1 drop in each eye twice a day, 5 days a week
- Castor oil: 1 drop in each eye at bedtime two to three times a week
Supplements:
- Coenzyme Q10 (antioxidant)
- VT Phak syrup (antioxidant)
- PreserVision (antioxidant)
- Blueberry (antioxidant)
- Colloidal silver to avoid any infection.
Do not be afraid. I assure you, it works without any side effects.
But be very constant.
Set up a routine so that you never forget to give him his drops and supplements every day.
Follow-up on my dog’s cataract treatment in 2025
A few words to let you know that the treatment started in 2020 and unchanged since 2023 (see above) is still ongoing, and my dog, although still facing difficulties at night, retains his daytime vision.
A white cloud is now more visible (he’s getting older), but he can still see.
Don’t hesitate to invest in this approach to fight canine cataract; you’ll give your four-legged companion many more happy years!
Your questions about cataract in dogs
Will colloidal silver help cataracts?
Colloidal silver is well known for its antibacterial and antiviral action. It is very suitable for protecting the eye from any infection.
It is also anti-inflammatory while improving blood circulation.
A drop of colloidal silver 10ppm in each eye two to three times a day can help in the treatment of cataracts.
Do cataracts hurt?
A cataract is more of an annoyance than pain.
At the beginning of the affection, the dog is sometimes confused and disoriented but does not suffer.
However, it must be preserved from any inflammation of the eyes.
Why have my dogs eyes gone blue?
This is nuclear sclerosis, normal aging of the lens.
The eye takes on a bluish appearance due to an accumulation of fibers in the capsular bag.
But the sight of the dog is not affected, the lens keeping its transparency.
→ 19 Dog Health Problems and their Natural Solutions
Is there a product that contains most if not all of the supplements you mentioned in the above article. And if not, do you make your own eye drops.
Thank you for your time.
Dee West
Thank you for your comment.
No, there are no eye drops containing all the necessary ingredients for cataracts. Each eye drop must be applied during the day, respecting at least a 20-minute gap between each application.
I don't make them myself but I know it is possible to get acetyl-l-carnosine to make NAC eye drops for example.
When the eye drops are applies to the pets eye.
Do the drop cause any stinging or pain to the eyes when applied?
Has your dog shown improvement since you started the eye drops?
How did you dilute to the 1% solution your explained in the beginning?
"And I tried the adventure of 4% acetyl L Carnosine (#ebay)
So I started quietly with a 1% solution to get his eyes used to it twice a day then added a 4% solution once a day." I bought a 2.5% there was no 1%. Yet also bought the 4.5%.
And how to I dilute the solution to the 4%?
My Toby is dealing with cataracts from diabetes. I want to help him retain as much eye sight as I can.
Yet, I don't want to cause him pain to his eyes.
Thank you for sharing your information to help other pets.
Thanks for your comment, Deborah.
All the eye drops I recommend do not sting the dog's eyes.
You can buy all the 1% and 4% NAC (acetyl L Carnosine) eye drops by clicking on the links that I indicate to you in the article.
Don't be afraid to try these products to save your dog's eyesight. You will help him a lot.
Hey Marie, I know you are not a vet, but I'm desperately trying to save my dogs eyesight. He has pretty advanced pannus (not too sure if you're familiar with the condition). Apparently, it's an auto-immune condition affecting the eyes. It first started as cloudiness and has progressed to cellular growth on top of the cornea. I've been trying so many different remedies to stave off blindness. I really don't want to start steroids so I'm doing everything in my power to find alternatives. I think using conventional treatment he would've been blind a long time ago. Do you think some of the treatments you've been doing might help improve my guy's situation? I just started him on a Chinese herb that's supposed to really support eye health called Ming my di Huang wan...
He's a happy and healthy boy otherwise, on a raw food diet, on bilberry, fish oil, tumeric PDR and green lipped muscle. His joints are awesome and he's full of energy and spunk.
Hi and thanks for your comment.
Like you, I did not want to treat my dog with aggressive drugs.
You really have nothing to fear from trying natural products.
To date (May 2023), my dog still sees when normally he should be completely blind.
Hello - your commitment to your fur baby is inspiring ! My dog has retinal detachment and just underwent surgery to reattach her retinas ! So far so good but we’re told that cataracts are side effects of the surgery ! Her left eye is good but there’s a small cataract on her right eye we need to monitor - my question is do we follow the protocols you’re currently using on your dog or should we try a few of the things first? Which would you say is high on your list of recommendations? Thank you for your time !
Thank you for your comment.
When I started treating my dog's cataracts, I first introduced a daily blueberry supplement and an acetyl-L-carnosine eye drop.
I stayed on this first step for a long time, along with castor oil two or three times a week.
This combination helps to contain the cataract, and may even make it disappear if it's not too advanced.
Give your pup a pat for me 🙂