Is your dog suffering from cataracts? We guess you tried many treatment solutions. But have you tried eye supplements for dogs with cataracts?
Let’s make it clear once and for all. Supplements don’t do magic! Indeed, supplements are a great way to improve your dog’s overall health. But they cannot lead to a full recovery from a disease.
Cataracts are unpleasant for dogs and can cause blindness in a worst-case scenario. So, besides the surgery, vets might recommend supportive treatment like supplements.
In this article, we will discuss the supplements for dogs with cataracts and cover the best supplements.
Role of Supplements in a Dog’s Life
Believe it or not, one-third of all dogs and cats in the USA are taking dietary supplements. Still, there is a lack of scientific proof that supplements truly work. However, your pet can enjoy many benefits while taking supplements, and some of them are:
What Supplements Can Do For Your Dog:
- Improved cognitive function
- Improved cardiopulmonary function
- Shiny coat
- Healthy eyes
- Normal digestion
Even if supplements don’t cure a certain disease, don’t you want better overall health for your dog?
Supplements come in many forms, including:
- Pills
- Oils
- Powders
- Chews
- Liquid
Most Popular Supplements for Dogs
Even if your dog is perfectly healthy, you can add some supplements to its diet. The most popular supplement is related to the digestive system. At some point in the dog’s life, there are high chances for metabolic issues. That’s why probiotics are very popular in veterinary medicine.
Another popular supplement is fish oil. Recently salmon oil became an alternative to fish oil. However, their effects are almost similar. These products can improve the dog’s skin, cardiovascular system, and cognitive function.
Antioxidants are also very used for pets. Dogs naturally produce antioxidants. But as they age, their production ability is lower. That’s why vets recommend antioxidants for geriatric patients.
Our tip is to avoid human supplements strictly. Even supplements for babies can be harmful to your puppy. These products might contain some hazardous substances like xylitol which is highly toxic for dogs.
Are Supplements Effective in Dogs With Cataracts?
Supplements can delay the progress of the cataracts. There isn’t enough research available to give a definite answer.
However, according to studies, some supplements can significantly delay the progress of cataracts.
Supplements can give great results if they are combined with surgery or other therapy. It also depends on the manufacturer and its ingredients. In general, supplements are great for many eye-related health issues, such as conjunctivitis, cataracts, or glaucoma.
Before adding a supplement to your dog’s diet, we advise consulting with your vet. Some dogs might suffer from other diseases, and supplements can do more harm than good in certain situations.
In the end, supplements can improve your dog’s current health condition. And isn’t that enough?
Supplements for Dogs With Cataracts
There are plenty of cataract supplements for dogs. We will list a few of them.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A can be found in many foods, including carrots, sweet potatoes, and wheat. However, some dogs are picky eaters. Therefore, you can simply buy a supplement. Keep in mind the allowed dosage for Vitamin A which is from 5000 to 250000 IU/kg.
Antioxidants
Cataracts are mostly developed as dogs age. The cause of that is the free radicals, and the only way to remove them are antioxidants. Since old dogs aren’t capable of producing antioxidants, antioxidant supplements are a great alternative.
Berries are another great alternative for antioxidants. Besides that, they are rich in flavonoids which support cellular health.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E
These vitamins are highly recommended for eye-related issues.
However, these vitamins can have some side effects if your pet suffers from some circulatory disease. Therefore, consult with your vet before purchasing your supplements.
Also, higher dosages can do a lot of harm.
Coenzyme Q10
Another antioxidant that can delay the process of cataracts.
There are different dosages for dogs depending on their size:
- Small dogs – 15 mg per day
- Medium dogs – 22 mg per day
- Large dogs – 30 mg per day
Cod Liver Oil
This supplement is a rich source of vitamins A and D and antioxidants. As a fish oil product, it offers plenty of other benefits besides protecting the eyes.
It has positive effects on the:
- Immune system
- Reproduction
- Cellular growth
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties, due to the omegas, make this supplement amazing.
Salmon and fish oil are great alternatives for cod liver oil.
Best Supplements for Dogs With Cataracts
There are many products available on the market. However, we chose the best products for your furry friends.
Snubbies
This product is available for all dog sizes. From extra small to extra large. But still, we advise consulting with a vet for the dosage.
It maintains eye health, and additionally, it supports the immune system. It also promotes cognition and relaxing properties. Its beef flavor will make your pet come for more.
Nutri-Vet
Dogs with cataracts are extremely exposed to other diseases and irritants. So, this product will defend your dog from germs and bacteria.
It also removes tear stains. Nutri-Vet contains boric acid, which helps in fighting eye infections.
Ark Naturals
This product has similar functions as dog goggles – they both protect the dog’s eye from irritants. The cleaning process is super easy. You just need to pour the product on a cotton ball and rub it around the dog’s eyes.
Even if this product sounds generic, its results are amazing.
Brilliant Salmon Oil
This is a great alternative to cod liver oil. As we previously mentioned, don’t use human products as supplements. If you can’t find cod oil, no worries – you can purchase salmon or fish oil. They both have amazing Omega-3 content. It will additionally improve your dog’s overall health.
The previously mentioned products are not the only products available for cataracts. There are plenty of other supplements, or you can simply improve the dog’s diet.
So What Supplements Should Your Dog Take?
It depends on the current health condition. But we recommend taking supplements only if your vet prescribes them. Your dog might suffer from some serious disease, and adding supplements can do a lot of harm in such cases.
In our opinion, antioxidants are the best supplement option for cataracts. So, before buying anything else, make sure you support your dog with some antioxidants. Even healthy dogs can benefit from supplements. So what are you waiting for?
