Juvenile Cataracts

Description: A cataract is any opacity of the ocular lens or its capsule. Juvenile cataracts are those that have an early onset. The only article on cataracts in Westies is from Sweden, where cataracts were found in 49 of 97 interrelated dogs. Cataracts in Westies have been observed occasionally by ophthalmologists in the U.S. In the Swedish report, cataracts were found in 35% of the dogs examined that were under 6 months of age, and in 54% of the dogs 6 months of age or older. Five of the dogs (10%) had severe visual problems at the time of examination. Many of the cataracts were of the posterior "Y" suture line type similar to those found in Siberian Huskies.

Age of Onset: Some cataracts develop in animals less than 6 months old. It is not known at what age the older dogs examined actually developed the initial lesion.

Diagnosis: A slit lamp (biomicroscope) is required to diagnose cataracts of the type reported in Westies. Direct ophthalmologic examination is inadequate.

Treatment: There is no treatment for the disease. In the blind dog, the lens can be removed in order to provide some vision.

Mode of Inheritance: The mode of inheritance has not been positively determined, but it is thought to be autosomal recessive. The disease occurs in numerous breeds of dogs, with a high incidence in some. Caution should be taken to prevent spread of the disease in the United States.

VetGen is conducting research on Congenital Cataracts in both West Highland White Terriers and Boston Terriers with the end result being a direct DNA test to determine an animal clear, a carrier, or affected.

For this research, VetGen is looking for families of dogs in which there are two dogs which have been diagnosed with Congenital Cataracts and are available for DNA sample collection. DNA is collected by means of small brush swabs which are simply swiped in the mouth of the dog. VetGen will send out the swab kits (4 swabs for each dog) along with the instructions, a data information sheet, and a self-addressed stamped envelope for their return. VetGen would also like the DNA from as many closely related, unaffected relatives (of the affected dogs) as is reasonably possible. VetGen will also need a copy of the dogs' pedigrees to learn how the dogs are related to each other. This helps to learn the mode of inheritance. Participation is FREE and COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL.

Owners and breeders who are willing to participate, please contact:

Cheryl Hogue
Research Coordinator
VetGen
1-800-483-8436
healthydog@vetgen.com
www.vetgen.com


***Disclaimer***

Any information contained on this site relating to various medical, health, and fitness conditions of Westies and their treatment is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a Westie's health - you should always consult your own veterinarian.


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