Eye Problems in Rottweiler - Symptoms, Signs and Treatment

The Rottweiler has a life span of about 10 to 13 years. They are of a solid build, weighing almost 120 pounds and have a classic black with tan coat. They are generally healthy, although they are prone to eye conditions including cataracts, retinal detachment and enthropia or ectropia.

Each owner should observe their pet for any symptoms of these common eye problems and know how to treat them.

• Cataracts
  Cataracts develop usually when the Rottweiler is about 18 months old. They can develop quickly or it can take years before the dog loses their vision or becomes completely blind. In some cases, it is a hereditary condition. When affected with cataracts, the Rottweiler loses vision but simply compensates with other senses, making it difficult for the owner to gauge the severity and identify the symptoms of cataract. If not identified, it may cause reactive inflammation inside the eye known as LIU or lens induced uveitis. LIU may lead to glaucoma or detached retina, making the dog irreversibly blind.

Symptoms
The sparkling brown eyes of the Rottweiler will become cloudy giving it a gray tinge as the lens loses it clarity. The vision is affected which can be noticed when it becomes difficult for your pet to find the food dish as there is loss in depth perception.

Treatment
Surgery is the only treatment for cataracts. The lens is surgically removed and a new lens is implanted. It is a common procedure and the dog gets his complete vision by the time the procedure is complete.

• Retinal Detachment
  The retina is that part of the eye that sends signals to the brain to enable an image to be formed, due to the light received from the object. Retinal detachment is a condition in which the retina detaches from the epithelium usually due to the accumulation of fluid. The accumulation of fluids may be due to some disease. Retinal detachment is a symptom and not a condition although it could be a congenital defect. High blood pressure, leukemia or poor clotting of blood may cause RD.

Symptoms
Reduced vision, complete blindness, or discoloration of the front of the eye is a classic symptom of retinal detachment.

Treatment
It is important to treat RD as soon as possible so that the retina does not deteriorate leading to permanent blindness. The vet will usually treat the cause of RD like re-absorption of the fluids then if needs be, surgically reattach the retina.

• Entropia or Ectropia
  Symptoms
  This is a condition which describes turned in or turned out eyelids. The hair growth on the eyelid scratches the cornea, thereby affecting the vision.

Treatment

These conditions can be surgically corrected.

When grooming your Rottweiler, clean the eyes with a moistened cotton ball to remove all the mucus. If there is extra discharge, then it may be signof an infection which needs a vet's attention. The eyes have close fitting eyelids, so your pet really does not need much eye care as a routine.