Hereditary Cataracts

General Information: Hereditary Cataracts (HC) in dogs results from a genetic mutation that causes the lens of the eye to become opaque, obstructing vision. The disease typically presents early, often within weeks to months of birth, initially as small, discrete opacities detectable during a veterinary eye exam. These cataracts progressively enlarge and usually culminate in total blindness by two to three years of age. While hereditary factors primarily drive the development of this condition, environmental influences such as exposure to ultraviolet light can exacerbate its severity. This progression can lead to complete vision loss, significantly impacting a dog's quality of life.

How to Read Your Dog's Test Results for this Genetic Variant:

Two Variants Detected: Dog Likely Affected

One Variant Detected: Dog Unlikely Affected

No Variants Detected: No Effect

Gene / Testing Information: Genetic testing for Hereditary Cataracts (HC) centers on the HSF4 gene, which, when mutated, is known to cause this eye condition. HC follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern; thus, a dog needs to inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent, to exhibit symptoms of the disease. Dogs with one copy of the mutated gene (carriers) do not typically show symptoms but can pass the mutation to their offspring. Breeding two carriers results in a 25% chance of producing affected offspring and a 50% chance of producing another carrier. Effective genetic testing is crucial to identify carriers and affected dogs to prevent the propagation of this condition in future generations. Breeders are advised to avoid mating carriers to prevent the birth of affected puppies. Dogs tested free of this mutation do not carry the genetic risk for developing or transmitting hereditary cataracts.