What It Is
Hereditary cataracts are genetically influenced lens opacities that occur independently of trauma, diabetes, or normal aging and may appear in congenital, juvenile, adult-onset, progressive, or breed-specific patterns.
Also Called: inherited cataracts; hereditary lens opacity; breed-associated cataracts
Breeds Affected: Featured examples include American Cocker Spaniel and Havanese, plus other breeds with inherited cataract patterns.
Breed Risk Note: Use this page when the breed has cataract risk that is best supported as hereditary but does not belong to a more specific subtype page.
The Idiot-Proof Explanation
This is the cataract version that may be baked into the dog’s genetics. The lens clouds because the dog inherited risk, not because it simply got old or had one dramatic snack.
What Causes It
Hereditary cataracts happen when inherited factors disrupt normal lens clarity. The exact age of onset, location in the lens, progression, and breeding advice can vary by breed, which is why subtype pages matter when the evidence is specific.
What Owners Actually Need To Know
A dog with suspected hereditary cataracts needs a veterinary ophthalmology exam, and breeding dogs need proper eye screening. Owners should not shrug it off as “just cloudy eyes.” Some hereditary cataracts stay small. Others progress, trigger inflammation, or threaten useful vision.