- Home
- Dog Conditions
- Iris Atrophy in Dogs
Iris Atrophy in Dogs
What is Iris Atrophy?
The colored tissue in the eye that surrounds the pupil is called the iris. Degeneration of the iris in dogs is clinically referred to as atrophy of the iris, and it’s a relatively common condition that can be a normal response to aging, or be the result of inflammation, injury or disease. This condition in its primary form does not hinder or diminish the eyesight of dogs.
Iris atrophy is the result of either chronic inflammation or high intraocular pressure. Many cases end with glaucoma, there is a direct correlation with breed, commonly small breed dogs such as miniature schnauzers.Iris Atrophy Average Cost
From 367 quotes ranging from $300 - $3,500
Average Cost
$1,200
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
Symptoms of Iris Atrophy in Dogs
- Anisocoria (uneven pupil size)
- Dull appearance in the color of the eye
- Change in shape of the pupil
- Mild sensitivity to bright light
- Holes in the iris (appear as small black specks)
- Fixed and dilated pupil
- Iris thinning
- Translucency of the iris
Types
- Primary iris atrophy
- Secondary iris atrophy
Causes of Iris Atrophy in Dogs
- Primary iris atrophy is a normal response to aging in dogs. This condition is known as senile iris atrophy, and it typically develops in middle-aged and older pets. While it can occur in all breed of dogs, it is most common in smaller breeds such as miniature and toy poodles, chihuahuas and miniature schnauzers.
- Secondary iris atrophy can be caused by chronic inflammation, such as uveitis, or glaucoma.
- Ocular trauma caused by blunt or sharp force to the eye can cause a type of injury that leads to secondary iris atrophy.
Diagnosis of Iris Atrophy in Dogs
Before assessing your pet, your veterinarian will want a full medical history of the dog, especially any details surrounding previous eye infections, issues with sensitivity to light, or a prior diagnosis of glaucoma.
Once a thorough history has been documented, your dog will have a physical examination and a battery of tests that may include any or all of the following:
- Ophthalmology exam - standard eye exam
- Tonometry - eye pressure test to check for glaucoma
- Corneal tests, neurological examination and skull x-rays (if the dog has been injured)
Treatment of Iris Atrophy in Dogs
Primary iris atrophy caused by aging needs no treatment. A shrinking and weakening (atrophy) of the iris is a nonreversible condition. Though it may cause your dog’s eyes to take on a new appearance, eyesight will not be diminished in any way.
Secondary iris atrophy that has been caused by disease, such as chronic glaucoma or chronic uveitis, is treated by controlling the underlying disease. Effective treatment for glaucoma or uveitis should bring an immediate halt to iris atrophy.
Secondary iris atrophy caused by trauma may require surgical intervention, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and analgesics.
Worried about the cost of treating your pet's symptoms?
Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers.
Recovery of Iris Atrophy in Dogs
Since primary iris atrophy is a normal condition of aging and poses no harm to the dog, there is no treatment or recovery time needed. Your veterinarian will continue to monitor the health of your dog’s eyes during regular yearly check-ups, but the dog need not be restricted from activity in any way.
Secondary iris atrophy recovery time varies, and is entirely dependent on the cause. Dogs with glaucoma, a chronic disease, will need to have their health and eyesight monitored and treated with regularity. Dogs with uveitis, a treatable condition, will require medications to curb inflammation and relieve pain.
Cost of Iris Atrophy in Dogs
Primary degeneration of the iris in dogs requires no treatment, so the only cost involved is that of an office visit with your local veterinarian, a fee which varies greatly from state to state. The cost will vary between $186 and $2,420 based on the amount of treatment required.
Iris Atrophy Average Cost
From 367 quotes ranging from $300 - $3,500
Average Cost
$1,200
Top
Iris Atrophy Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Australian Shepherd
Daisy
15.5
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My 15 year old Australian Shepherd has always had 2 light blue eyes. One eyes recently changed (overnight, it seemed) to amberish. The eyes otherwise look normal and don't seem to bother her. Should I be concerned?
Dec. 5, 2017
0 Recommendations
Whilst a change in eye colour is normal at around eight to twelve weeks of age in this breed, changes in colour later on in life may be a sign of something serious and should be investigated by your Veterinarian or an Ophthalmologist familiar with Australian Shepherds and their eyes. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Dec. 6, 2017
Was this question and answer helpful?
Half cocker half minuture sheltie
Pookie
11
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My dog has a 1/2 minutes or sheltie 1/2 cocker spaniel and was extremely Healthy until getting a tick parasite which cause nose bleeding And inflammation of his right eye. He recovered quickly from the parasite after a few days in the veterinarian but his I has taken on glaucoma and even though the swelling Has receded A dark Brown to a light cafe Brown. Is this color Something to worry about. The vet said that it would take a month to see if he regained his e
vision And we were hopeful with his retina reappearing but now it is change colors
Sept. 24, 2017
1 Recommendations
Glaucoma is never easy to predict what the outcome will be, especially when it is secondary to other issues. The iris reappearing may be indicative of a reduction in intraocular pressure, but I cannot say for certain. These changes should be seen by your Veterinarian and tonometry will show if there has been an overall reduction in pressure. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Sept. 24, 2017
Was this question and answer helpful?
Iris Atrophy Average Cost
From 367 quotes ranging from $300 - $3,500
Average Cost
$1,200
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
