It is not uncommon to hear about pets who have cataracts. It is more common in dogs then cats. Although we associate cataracts with aging, it can also be due to inheritance or they can occur from toxins, infections or diabetes.

The word cataract literally means "to break down." This break down refers to the disruption of the normal arrangement of the lens fibers or its capsule. This disruption results in the loss of transparency and the resultant reduction in vision. Cataracts often appear to have a white or crushed ice appearance and are found in the lens of the eye.

Cataracts can be a mild problem that minimally affect vision, or they can be a severe problem that cause blindness.

Cataracts are formed due to oxidation and the pet's normal antioxidant abilities are overwhelmed.

Supplementing your pet's natural diet with antioxidants and the herb bilberry may be helpful. Topically applying succus cineraria has also helped in anecdotal reports among holistic vets. By giving your pet's body extra antioxidant, it may be possible to neutralize the harmful by-products of cellular oxidation.

There is some evidence in pets that antioxidants (especially mixed with carotenoids and vitamin C, and E), may prevent or slow down progression of cataracts.

Several antioxidants can be used to supplement pets. Most commonly vitamin A, E, and the minerals selenium, manganese, and zinc are prescribed. Other antioxidants that may be helpful include N-acetyleysteine, Coenzyme Q10, Ginkgo biloba, bilberry, grapeseed extract and pycnogenol. There is no "correct antioxidant to use and dosages vary depending on the antioxidant and your pet.

Bioflavonoids have been shown to improve health as well. They seem to enhance the effects of other antioxidants. Quercetin is a natural antioxidant bioflavonoid found in red wine, grapefruit, apples black tea and in lesser amounts in leafy green vegetables and beans. Quercetin protects cells in the body from damage by free radicals and stabilized collagen in blood vessels.

As for conventional therapy, cataracts that interfere with vision may need to be surgically removed.


Kristina
 

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