Combating Dog Cataracts Naturally
Just like in humans, dogs (and cats!) can develop bluish-grey or milky patches in the lenses of their eyes called cataracts. Whether due to old age, injury, sickness, or genetics, cataracts can be a normal part of development for many of our four-legged friends. It might not physically hurt them, but cataracts do obscure animals’ field of vision, meaning over time they will become more and more blind to their surroundings.
If you notice your dog or cat’s eyes starting to look a little cloudy, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian and make sure there isn’t an underlying illness causing the cataracts, such as diabetes. Sometimes treating the basal issue can help alleviate the cataracts and keep them from getting worse. But if your vet gives your furry friend a clean bill of health otherwise, it’s likely they’re just going through the motions of aging or they’re genetically predisposed to cataracts. While most cats and dogs can get around great with limited or no sight due to their extraordinary senses of smell and hearing, you may still want to treat the cataracts. Fortunately, there are lots of different natural remedies that may help cataracts in dogs and cats.
One 2010 Taiwanese study found that introducing antioxidant-rich foods into animals’ diets can significantly combat cataracts. Cranberries, blueberries, kale, broccoli, and most dark-hued fruits and vegetables are great sources of antioxidants. Herbsmith’s Spector Eye & Vision Support for Dogs combines herbal extracts and vitamins with these antioxidant superfoods in supplemental chews. Another option for adding a boost of antioxidants is Wholistic Pet Organics' Ester-C, which increases eye tissue healing and also boosts overall immunity with vitamin C. As far as cats, you may consider incorporating an antioxidant-dense food such as Open Farm wet foods, which have ingredients such as cranberries and spinach at the top of the list.
One of the most popular products we carry is Primalix Cataractin Food Drops which uses wheatgrass, ginkgo biloba, and bilberry fruit extracts to fight free radicals along with N-Acetyl L-Carnosine, a compound widely used by both humans and their pets to support lipids in the eyes and encourage healthy eye tissue function. By blending these nutrients as supplements to your pet’s diet, you can treat cataracts from within.
Not sure where to start? Feel free to stop by the store to chat with one of our team members about which cataracts solution is right for you and your pet. You can also schedule a free phone consultation from the comfort of your home!
- Dayne Samuels