Belgian Griffon
Mandated by Verband Deutscher Kleinhundezüchter e.V. (VK) / VDH
Grauer Star · HSF4-Katarakt · Juvenile Cataract · Familial Cataract
Hereditary cataract is an inherited eye disorder characterized by the progressive clouding of the eye's natural lens. This clouding prevents light from passing through to the retina, which gradually impairs the dog's vision and can lead to complete blindness. The condition is primarily inherited in an autosomal-recessive manner, meaning a puppy must inherit the mutated gene from both parents to be affected.
Owners typically notice a cloudy, milky-blue, or white discoloration in one or both of the dog's pupils, often starting in puppyhood or young adulthood. Affected dogs may also show signs of vision loss, such as bumping into furniture or hesitating in low-light conditions.
While there is no medical cure, the condition can be treated with surgical removal of the cloudy lens, which requires lifelong follow-up eye drops. This specialized veterinary surgery typically costs between €2,500 and €6,000.
More conditions affecting the Eyes.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
