Diabetic Retinopathy

Causes   Symptoms   Natural remedies   Complementary care

Diabetic retinopathy is a weakening of the blood vessels in the retina due to chronic blood sugar imbalances caused by diabetes. This can lead to blood and other liquid leaking into the retina from the blood vessels, causing vision loss and possibly eventually blindness if not controlled.

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Complete Product List

Essential Ultra EFA for Dogs and Cats 16 oz Essential fatty acids for dogs & cats

Essential Visioplex Formula 200 capsules Eye health support

Very Important BIO-C Formula for Pets 113 gms Sodium Ascorbate with Bioflavonoids

Very Important CoQ10 30 for Dogs & Cats 30 gels Antioxidant, retinal and heart support.

Very Important Nutritional Support for Dogs & Cats 9.07oz General nutritional support for pets.

Blindness is a frequent occurrence in diabetic dogs and less frequent in diabetic cats, who suffer more from peripheral neuropathy (weakening of the leg muscles). Generally, most diabetic dogs experience type-1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes, rather than the type-2 that's now becoming common in obese humans. 80-95% of diabetic cats experience type-2 diabetes. but are generally severely insulin-dependent by the time symptoms are diagnosed.

Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy in Dogs and Cats

Chronic high blood sugar causes diabetic retinopathy, resulting in damaged blood vessels throughout the body, including for many pets bleeding in the retina resulting in vision loss and, potentially, in blindness.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy in Pets

Early signs of diabetes include such symptoms as sudden weight loss or gain, accompanied by excessive drinking and urination. The pets' appetite may become ravenous or absent. In dogs, the next symptom may be vision problems including cataracts. Cats more commonly suffer from peripheral neuropathy. You will see a weakening of the hind legs and the cat's gait may become stilted or wobbly.

Owners should watch for noticeable thinning of the skin and apparent fragility.

Complementary Care

Fatty acids are important. Get a blend that is rich in the Omega 3 constituents EPA and DHA.

Add general supplements, including ones that include plenty of vitamin C and bioflavonoids.

CoQ10 supports heart functioning and may help animal patients with retinal damage.

Nutritional supplements that include important antioxidants and herbs that support healthy vision and strengthen blood vessels such as eyebright, grapeseed extract, taurine and bilberry.