The most common cause of cataracts in dogs is a genetic (or inherited) defect. Hereditary cataracts may occur as early as birth or develop during a dog’s youth or middle age.
The second most common cause of cataracts in dogs is diabetes mellitus, which can lead to rapid cataract development.
Other, less common, causes of cataracts in dogs include:
-Old age, especially in dogs over 8 years old
-Eye trauma
-Uveitis (inflammation of the eye’s uvea)
-Low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia or hypoparathyroidism)
-Nutritional deficiencies
-Exposure to UV light, radiation, or toxic substances
