Symptom: Blindness – Why is my pet going blind?
Signs my pet is having trouble seeing
Changes in the eyes:
Cloudy, bluish, or milky appearance
Redness, swelling, or bulging of the eyes
Pupils that don't constrict or dilate in response to light
Physical actions:
Your pet bumping into walls, furniture, or people
Hesitation when going up or down stairs or jumping on/off furniture
Difficulty finding or retrieving toys
Changes in mood and interaction:
Being easily startled, jumpy, or scared when approached
Confusion or a dazed appearance
Aggression out of fear or being easily startled
Hesitation to enter new or unfamiliar places
Decreased interest in playing
Sleeping more than usual
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Frequently asked questions about blindness in pets
What are the common reasons why my pet is going blind?
- Cataracts are a cloudiness in the eye's lens that prevents light from passing through effectively
- Uveitis Inflammation inside the eye
- Glaucoma, this condition results from increased pressure inside the eye
- Retinal Detachment when the retina separates from the underlying tissues, and it cannot function properly
- General diseases and tumours of the eyes
DO’s – What can I do at home if my pet is going blind?
- Keep your home layout the same and safe
- Create safe, predictable pathways
- Use sound to communicate with your pet
- Provide strong scent cues
- Build routines
- Do keep your pet on a lead (even in a fenced garden) (for dogs)
- Do guide him/her verbally
DON'Ts – What I shouldn't do at home if my pet is going blind?
- Don't rearrange furniture or leave clutter on the floor
- Don't move their food, water bowls, or bed
- Don't make loud noises or sudden movements around them
- Don't leave hazards uncovered or accessible
- Don't allow strangers or children to approach and pet your pet without warning
- Don't assume any vision loss is just due to old age. Consult your vet.
When should I consider taking my pet to the vet if I think they are going blind?
Contact your vet immediately in case of:
- Sudden blindness
- Eye pain by squinting, swelling or redness
- Visible trauma
- Cloudy or blue/white eye
Contact your vet soon in case of:
- Gradual vision loss
- Behavioural changes
- Changes in the eye without pain
- Existing conditions that can cause blindness