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Cairn Terrier Eye Diseases

The Cairn Terrier is susceptible to certain ocular disorders which require early detection on the part of owners and specialized attention by veterinarians. Conditions such as melanocytic glaucoma are specific to this breed, and other conditions such as lens luxation can occur in these dogs as well.

  1. Ocular melanosis

    • One disorder which is primarily found in the Cairn Terrier breed is ocular melanosis. The eye disease is inherited, and it affects both of the dog's eyes. It is characterized by small dark spots on the eyes and eventually leads to the buildup of fluid and pressure in the eyes. In some cases an ocular melanoma can develop and can spread beyond the eye, although this is considered to be a rare occurrence. If the condition is found early enough, the dog's vision damage can be delayed.

    Melanocytic Glaucoma

    • Melanocytic glaucoma, formerly called pigmentary glaucoma, is another eye disease which occurs in Cairn Terriers. It is not found in other breeds, and according to an April 2002 Canadian Veterinary Journal article entitled "Melanocytic Glaucoma in a Cairn Terrier," the condition is familial. It occurs in dogs which are between nine and 13 years old. Unlike ocular melanosis, it can occur in only one eye or in both of the eyes. In this disease, an abnormal number of cells develop. Early symptoms are dark irises and some swelling, but the condition progresses with the growth of excess numbers of cells. These unusual cells are called melanocytes. They are of a round or oval shape, and they spread throughout the regions of the eye including the cornea and retina.

    Lens Luxation

    • In addition to the above diseases, another hereditary disease which can occur in Cairn Terriers is lens luxation. In this condition, the eye's lens cannot focus because it becomes dislocated due to weakening of ocular fiber. Pain, redness, and tearing are early signs, and if left untreated lens luxation can turn into glaucoma (pressure in the eye which can lead to blindness) and uveitis (swelling of the inner layer of the eye which supplies blood to the retina). Despite the eye problems which can affect the Cairn Terrier breed, it is important to note that the dogs are a healthy breed overall. Eye problems can be caught and treated early by recognizing the symptoms and seeking early veterinary care when necessary.

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