Cataract(HC)
Also known as: Grauer Star · Hereditary Cataract · Linsentrübung · Juvenile Katarakt · Cataracta · …
Overview
What it is
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the lens inside the dog's eye, which is the clear structure that focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy or opaque, it blocks light from entering, gradually impairing the dog's vision. If left untreated, this condition can eventually lead to complete blindness in the affected eye.
How it presents
Owners may notice a cloudy, bluish-grey, or white discoloration inside the dog's pupil, along with signs of vision loss like bumping into objects. Depending on the genetic cause, these symptoms can appear as early as puppyhood or develop later in adult dogs.
Treatment
While cataracts cannot be cured with medication, they can be treated successfully with a one-time surgical procedure to remove the cloudy lens. This specialized surgery typically costs between 2,000 and 5,000 EUR.
How it's tested
ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK)(ECVO-DOK)
Primary testEye examAugenuntersuchung durch ECVO-zertifizierten Augentierarzt (Dortmunder Kreis). Erkennt PRA, Katarakt, Entropium, CEA, MPP, RD u.a.
Issuing body: ECVO
Result scheme: Eye-ECVO
Hereditaere Katarakt (HC) DNA-Test(HC)
Primary testDNA testEin DNA-Test zum Nachweis der Mutation im HSF4-Gen, die für die erbliche Katarakt bei verschiedenen Hunderassen verantwortlich ist.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
24 of 221 breeds
Afghan HoundMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Windhundzucht- und Rennverband e.V. (DWZRV)
Airedale TerrierMandatory testMandated by Klub für Terrier e.V.
AkitaRecommended standard
Alaskan Klee KaiRecommended standard
American Cocker SpanielRecommended standard
American Staffordshire TerrierRecommended standard
AussiedoodleRecommended standard
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle DogRecommended standard
BasenjiRecommended standard
Bedlington TerrierRecommended standard
Bichon FriseRecommended standard
Border TerrierRecommended standard
BordoodleRecommended standard
Boston TerrierRecommended standard
Brazilian TerrierRecommended standard
CavapooRecommended standard
Cesky TerrierRecommended standard
CockapooRecommended standard
Curly Coated RetrieverMandatory testMandated by Deutscher Retriever Club e.V. (DRC)
Dandie Dinmont TerrierRecommended standard
DoxiepooRecommended standard
Dutch SchapendoesRecommended standard
Dutch SmoushondRecommended standard
East Siberian LaikaRecommended standard
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cataract?
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the lens inside the dog's eye, which is the clear structure that focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy or opaque, it blocks light from entering, gradually impairing the dog's vision. If left untreated, this condition can eventually lead to complete blindness in the affected eye.
How is Cataract tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK), Hereditaere Katarakt (HC) DNA-Test, Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Afghan Hound, Airedale Terrier, Akita, Alaskan Klee Kai, American Cocker Spaniel, American Staffordshire Terrier, Aussiedoodle, Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog.