Understanding Retinal Detachment in Pets: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Vision is a crucial part of a pet’s overall well-being, and when something as serious as retinal detachment occurs, immediate veterinary attention is necessary to preserve sight and prevent permanent blindness. Retinal detachment happens when the retina separates from the underlying tissue inside the eye, disrupting the way light is processed and leading to partial or complete vision loss.

At Veterinary Vision Center in Shreveport, Louisiana, we specialize in advanced ophthalmic care for pets, ensuring that conditions like retinal detachment are diagnosed and treated promptly. If your pet is showing any signs of vision loss, don’t wait—early intervention can make all the difference.

What Causes Retinal Detachment in Dogs and Cats?

Retinal detachment doesn’t happen randomly—it is almost always the result of underlying health issues or physical trauma. Understanding these causes can help in early detection and prevention.

1. Trauma & Injury

A strong impact to the head or eye—such as falling from a height, being hit by a car, or getting into a fight with another animal—can cause the retina to detach. Even something as simple as excessive pressure from rubbing the eye due to irritation can contribute to damage over time.

2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Hypertension is one of the leading causes of retinal detachment, particularly in older pets. Conditions like chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism (in cats), and Cushing’s disease (in dogs) can cause dangerously high blood pressure, leading to ruptured blood vessels in the eye that weaken the retina’s attachment.

Did you know? High blood pressure in pets often goes unnoticed until it causes serious complications like blindness.

3. Tumors & Growths in the Eye

Both benign and malignant tumors can press on the retina, leading to detachment. These may be primary ocular tumors or secondary metastases from cancers in other parts of the body.

4. Genetic & Breed Predispositions

Some breeds are more likely to experience retinal issues due to inherited conditions.
Dogs at higher risk:

  • Collies
  • Shih Tzus
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Australian Shepherds

Cats at higher risk:

  • Persian Cats
  • Siamese Cats
  • Burmese Cats

If your pet’s breed is known to be at risk, regular eye exams can help catch problems early.

Learn about the ocular conditions we treat.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment: What to Look For

Many pets adjust quickly to vision loss, making it difficult for owners to detect retinal detachment early. However, there are signs that can indicate trouble:

Behavioral Changes:

  • Bumping into furniture, walls, or other objects.
  • Hesitation when moving in unfamiliar areas.
  • Difficulty navigating stairs.

Eye-Related Symptoms:

  • Sudden blindness (appearing confused or lost in familiar spaces).
  • Cloudy or red eyes, indicating inflammation or hemorrhage.
  • Squinting or pawing at the eye, signaling discomfort.

If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, immediate evaluation is necessary to prevent further damage.

Learn about identifying eye pain in pets.

How Retinal Detachment Is Diagnosed

At Veterinary Vision Center, we use specialized ophthalmic equipment to detect and evaluate retinal detachment. A comprehensive eye exam may include:

  • Ophthalmoscopic Examination – A detailed look at the retina to check for abnormalities, tears, or detachment.
  • Ocular Ultrasound – Used when the retina is obscured by cloudiness (e.g., cataracts or bleeding).
  • Blood Pressure Measurement – To identify hypertension as an underlying cause.
  • Laboratory Tests – Bloodwork to detect underlying conditions such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or infections.

What to expect during your pet’s eye exam.

Treatment Options for Retinal Detachment

The success of treatment depends on early detection and addressing the root cause. Treatment may include:

Surgical Intervention

  • Scleral Buckling – A procedure to reattach the retina.
  • Vitrectomy – Removes abnormal fluids inside the eye to improve reattachment.

Medical Management

  • Blood Pressure Control – If hypertension is the cause, medications such as amlodipine (for cats) or enalapril (for dogs) may be prescribed.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Therapy – Steroids or NSAIDs to reduce swelling inside the eye.

Treatment of Underlying Conditions

If retinal detachment is secondary to cancer, infection, or an autoimmune disease, managing the primary illness is critical to prevent further complications.

Explore our advanced pet eye care services.

Caring for a Pet with Retinal Detachment

Recovery and long-term management are essential to preserving your pet’s quality of life. After treatment, pet owners should:

1. Create a Safe Home Environment

  • Avoid rearranging furniture to keep familiar paths open.
  • Use textured rugs to help guide movement.
  • Ensure proper lighting, especially at night.

2. Follow Medication & Recovery Plans

  • Administer prescribed eye drops or oral medications exactly as directed.
  • Limit high-energy activities—jumping or rough play can worsen retinal damage.

3. Schedule Regular Ophthalmic Check-Ups

  • Pets with previous retinal detachment require ongoing monitoring to detect recurrence or further complications.
  • Routine eye exams are crucial for breeds at risk.

Can Retinal Detachment Be Prevented?

While not all cases are preventable, taking these steps can reduce your pet’s risk:

  • Monitor blood pressure in aging pets (especially cats with kidney disease).
  • Provide a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3s for eye health.
  • Protect your pet’s eyes—avoid activities that risk trauma or head injuries.
  • Know your pet’s genetic risks—regular screening can catch early signs of inherited conditions.

FAQs on Retinal Detachment in Pets

Q. How urgent is retinal detachment?
A. It’s an emergency—permanent blindness can occur if treatment is delayed. Immediate veterinary care is essential.

Q. Can retinal detachment heal on its own?
A. No, but early intervention may restore some or all vision, depending on the cause.

Q. Is my pet at risk for future eye problems after retinal detachment?
A. Yes, especially if caused by hypertension, trauma, or a genetic condition. Ongoing monitoring is crucial.

Protect Your Pet’s Vision with Expert Care

At Veterinary Vision Center, we use advanced diagnostics and specialized treatments to help pets with eye diseases, including retinal detachment. If you suspect your pet is losing vision, don’t wait—early intervention is key.

Contact us to schedule a consultation.

Your pet depends on their vision—let’s protect it together.