Retinal dysplasia is a pet health disease that affects the retinas of cats, dogs and some farm animals. This is typically a nonprogressive condition and can be caused by a number of things including genetic defects, viral infections, Vitamin A deficiencies and various medications.
How Retinal Dysplasia Affects Your Pet
Retinal dysplasia occurs when there is an abnormal development of your pet's retina. Typically, the condition will result in formations of tiny blind spots that do not cause any severe vision problems for your dog or cat. However, if there are large areas of dysplasia, your pet may experience such problems as cataracts, retinal detachment, and/or partial or complete blindness.
Common Symptoms of Retinal Dysplasia
Unfortunately, there are few apparent symptoms of retinal dysplasia, and some pets do not exhibit any at all unless they become blind. With that said, it is essential that you pay close attention to your dog or cat and take note of any of the following warning signs, which are indicative of the condition. Common Symptoms of Retinal Dysplasia in Pets: Hesitancy to Walk into Dark Hallways or Rooms, Hesitancy to Navigate Stairs, Hesitancy to Jump on or off Furniture, Bumping into Furniture, Walls and Other Objects, Difficulty Recognizing Objects and People, Change in the Pigmentation of the Eye, Bloodshot Eyes and Behavioral Changes.
Treatments for Retinal Dysplasia
It is also unfortunate that there are no treatments for retinal dysplasia. With that said, if you have a pet that is predisposed to the disease, it is important for you to have its eyes tested by a veterinarian regularly. If it is determined that your dog or cat has retinal dysplasia, it is recommended that you have it spayed or neutered.
Breeds Affected
Retinal dysplasia can be inherited or acquired; however, inherited cases are more common. Additionally, while this condition can occur in dogs, cats and some farm animals, it is most often seen in canines. Animals most vulnerable to Retinal Dysplasia are: Bedlington and Sealyham Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, English and American Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, Beagles and Akitas, Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers, Afghan Hounds and Old English Sheepdogs, Australian Shepherds, animals infected with herpesvirus or parvovirus, animals exposed to radiation or various toxins and animals that have experienced trauma.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.