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My dog's eye has a blue film. Is it cataracts or another issue?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Eskimo Dog | Male | unneutered | 11 years and 1 month old | 31 lbs

I think Siggy is developing cataracts, he seems to have a bit of film on one eye that looks blue in the light. Is this a sign or cataracts and is there any treatment?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 23rd, 2017

Cataracts normally appear as cloudiness of the pupil only - this is the black part of the eye in the center, inside the iris. So the surface of the eye should look normal, but the black part may look cloudy.

What you are describing - a bluish "film" on the surface of the entire eye - sounds more like some type of problem affecting the cornea. This can be a sign of glaucoma, or some other problem such as corneal dystrophy.

Cataracts can be treated surgically if this ends up being the problem, just as in humans. Glaucoma can be treated medically with eye drops in some cases, while other affected dogs may need surgery for this problem as well. I would recommend taking Siggy to the vet for an exam as soon as you are able to - your vet should be able to narrow down the possibilities based on the appearance of the eye, and can also do some testing if needed to make a definite diagnosis and see what can be done to treat the problem.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on December 14th, 2016
Given that they are both showing the same problem, it could be a hereditary condition such as cataracts, glaucoma, or corneal dystrophy. I would take Shug and your other dog into the vet to have their eyes examined as soon as possible. Any eye condition should be considered an emergency, as leaving them untreated can lead to vision loss. The vet can diagnose what is causing their eyes to have this filmy/blue problem, and can treat it. I would take them into the vet today.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on May 30th, 2017
It may be age related changes in the eyes, cataracts or infection/inflammation. The only way to tell would be to have Cookie examined by your veterinarian or a veterinary opthalmologist. If she is rubbing or pawing at the eyes, place an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent trauma.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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