Lenticular Sclerosis
Lenticular sclerosis occurs when there is a blue/white transparent “haze” that develops within the lens of the eye in senior dogs. It is a naturally occurring condition associated with effects of aging, which can lead to white and cloudy eyes. Dogs that experience lenticular sclerosis do not appear to have their vision significantly affected. Lenticular sclerosis typically develops in both eyes in senior dogs. It appears as a symmetrically rounded gray area in the center of the lens.
The following symptoms may be observed as your dog develops lenticular sclerosis:
- Cloudy color in the lens
- Lack of vision
- Lack of distance and depth perception
- Typically present in both eyes
- Cloudiness differs on lighting
When white eyes occur in dogs due to the presence of lenticular sclerosis or cataracts, there are several causes as to why it develops. In lenticular sclerosis in dogs, the lens becomes harder as time passes. As the central lens is compressed by new fibers which are then deposited on the outer rings of the lens, the compression results in lens hardening.
Cataracts
Another cause of white eyes in dogs is cataracts. Cataracts are characterized as white and opaque. Cataracts cloud the eye lens and can cause either partial or complete loss of vision. Cataracts develop as result of an increased amount of protein accumulated in the eye. The retina is prevented from receiving light and creating an image for your dog. In turn, this may cause the loss of vision. Untreated cataracts can lead to further eye inflammation, glaucoma, and blindness. While cataracts are slightly more likely to be observed in senior dogs, they can occur at any age and can be observed in either one or both eyes. Some signs to look out for include:
- White/cloudy eyes
- Discoloration of the eye
- Changes in lighting
In cataracts, the most common cause of this condition is due to genes. There are certain dog breeds that are prone to developing cataracts such as Miniature and Standard Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Schnauzers, Golden Retrievers, Boston Terriers, and Bichon Frises. Other causes of cataracts include diabetes and eye trauma.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma can lead to blindness and is a painful disease. Pressure inside the eye leads to the pain and is caused by too much fluid in the eye. The cornea can become cloudy leading to a loss of vision. Other symptoms may be:
- Squinting
- Avoidance of light
- Redness of the eye