What conditions can cause vision problems or blindness in pets?

Vision problems and blindness develop secondary to many medical conditions, including:

• Corneal ulcers

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts, which can be caused by old age or diabetes 

• Trauma

• Retinal detachment caused by hypertension

• Progressive retinal atrophy

• Pannus

• Eye or eyelid tumors

• Brain tumors

• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (i.e., dry eye)

• Entropion

How can vision problems or blindness affect my pet’s quality of life?

Pets typically adapt easily to losing their vision, as long as they are comfortable and pain-free, and they have a supportive family to guide them. If your pet’s vision problem is associated with a painful condition, such as a corneal ulcer, glaucoma, or entropion, the underlying cause can be treated to manage the discomfort and remedy the issue. Pets who lose their vision completely, or need both eyes surgically removed because of glaucoma, cancer, or other diseases, also generally handle their blindness well.

How can I manage my pet’s vision problems or blindness at home?

If your pet is suffering from vision problems or blindness, these management tips may help improve their quality of life:

• Refrain from rearranging your furniture frequently.

• Maintain a consistent routine, especially with mealtimes, playtimes, and bedtimes.

• Block access to stairs and other areas that may be dangerous for your pet.

• Build ramps with guardrails in place of steps inside and outside your home.

• Create safe, low-lying resting areas for pets who used to enjoy perching up high.

• Close doors behind you to prevent your pet from becoming lost in a room. 

• Talk to your pet frequently, and include them in family activities. 

• Create location cues, such as carpet runners down hallways, to guide your pet.

• Always keep your pet’s food, water, and litter box in the same spot.

• Swap out a water dish for a water fountain—the sound of running water will help guide your pet to a drink.

• Keep the floor clear of objects to ensure your pet does not trip.

• Ensure your fence is secure if your pet likes to roam in your yard.

• Outfit your pet with a “halo” that will bump into objects before they do.

When should I seek veterinary help for my pet’s vision problems or blindness?

If your pet has a chronic condition, you should maintain close contact with your family veterinarian about their progress and management. Contact your family veterinarian in these situations:

• Your pet’s eyes appear red or swollen

• Your pet has ocular discharge

• Your pet seems uncomfortable and is pawing at their eyes

• Your pet is anxious and stressed from vision loss

Your family veterinarian may have additional management tips, or may prescribe eye ointments or drops that can help your pet feel more comfortable.