What it is
The lens sits just behind the pupil, held in place all round by a great many fine fibres. In this inherited disease the fibres weaken and start to break, so the lens wobbles and then slips. If it falls back into the depths of the eye, the dog may lose some sight but feel little. If it slips forward, it blocks the outflow of fluid, and pressure inside the eye climbs within hours.
The disease tends to show in young adult to middle-aged dogs, and once one eye is affected the other is at risk too. Sometimes the lens trembles slightly as the eye moves, a hint that the fibres are giving way.
There are no special rules at home, but you will be the first to see a change. Look at both eyes in good light every day or two: a suddenly red, cloudy or watering eye, or a dog that keeps one eye shut, needs a vet immediately.
Signs you may notice
- Sudden red eye
- Bluish, cloudy eye
- Watering eye
- Squinting or eye kept shut
- Rubbing at the eye
- Avoids light
The eye may suddenly turn red, water or look bluish and cloudy, and the dog squints, rubs the eye or avoids light. If you see these signs, don't wait: take the dog to a vet right away.
When to see a vet
A suddenly red, cloudy or painful eye needs a vet immediately, because raised pressure inside the eye can damage sight within hours. A lens that seems to tremble in a calm eye is worth a visit soon.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.