Last Updated on September 29, 2022 by Pauline G. Carter
There’s a common myth that Siamese cats go blind. The myth is perpetuated by the fact that some Siamese cats do, in fact, go blind. But the myth is only partially true.
While it’s true that some Siamese cats go blind, it’s not because they’re Siamese. The truth is that any cat can go blind, regardless of breed. So why do people think that only Siamese cats go blind?
The answer may lie in the fact that manySiamese cats are blue-eyed. And blue-eyed cats are more prone to a condition called congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB). CSNB is a genetic disorder that affects the retina and prevents the eyes from adjusting to changes in light levels.
This means that affected cats have trouble seeing at night or in dimly lit areas. However, CSNB doesn’t always lead to complete blindness and many affected cats learn to adapt and live relatively normal lives.
There’s a common misconception that Siamese cats go blind as they get older. While it’s true that some Siamese do develop vision problems, it’s not necessarily due to their breed. In fact, many non-Siamese cats also experience vision loss as they age.
So what’s the cause of vision loss in older cats? One common reason for vision loss in aging cats is cataracts. A cataract is a cloudy area in the eye that affects the lens and can eventually lead to complete blindness.
Cataracts are more common in older cats, but Siamese seem to be particularly prone to them. Fortunately, surgery can often remove cataracts and restore normal vision. Another condition that can cause vision loss in both Siamese and non-Siamese cats is glaucoma.
This is a buildup of pressure inside the eye that damages the optic nerve and leads to gradual blindness. Glaucoma can be treated with medication, but unfortunately there is no cure at this time. So if you have a Siamese cat, don’t assume that his or her vision problems are due to old age – it could be something else entirely.
Be sure to take your cat to the vet for regular checkups so any health issues can be detected early on and treated accordingly.
6 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Siamese Cat
Do Siamese Cats Have Eye Sight Problems?
Siamese cats are a popular breed of domestic cat, characterized by their unique blue eyes and striking color points. While they are typically healthy and hardy cats, there is one health concern that is somewhat more common in Siamese cats than other breeds – eye problems. One type of eye problem that can affect Siamese cats is called strabismus, which is when the eyes are not aligned properly.
This can cause difficulties with depth perception and may lead to the cat having trouble hunting or catching prey. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem. Another issue that Siamese cats may face is glaucoma, which is an increase in pressure within the eye that can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness.
This condition is usually treated with medication, but in severe cases may require surgery to relieve the pressure on the eye. Overall, while Siamese cats may be more prone to certain eye problems than other breeds, these conditions can usually be successfully treated if caught early. So if you notice your Siamese cat’s eyes looking off to one side or appearing cloudy or red, be sure to take them to the vet for a check-up as soon as possible.
Do All Siamese Cats Go Blind?
No, not all Siamese cats go blind. However, a significant number of them are born with a genetic disorder called progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which leads to blindness. PRA is caused by a mutation in the rd1 gene, and it is thought that this mutation originated in Thailand (hence the name “Siamese”).
While there is no cure for PRA, affected cats can still live happy and healthy lives with proper care from their owners.
What Age Do Siamese Cats Go Blind?
Siamese cats have a high rate of blindness due to their blue eyes. The condition is called progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and it affects the cells in the retina that are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain. PRA usually starts affecting Siamese cats around 4 years of age, but can occur as early as 2 years old.
The disease progresses slowly, and most Siamese cats will eventually go completely blind. There is no treatment or cure for PRA, so if you have a Siamese cat it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of vision loss such as not responding to calls or bumps into objects. If you notice any changes in your cat’s vision, take them to the vet for an examination.
What are the Signs of a Blind Cat?
There are a few things to look for when trying to figure out if a cat is blind. One sign is that the cat will not respond to movement, including its own. A blind cat also may bump into things frequently or seem disoriented.
Another sign is that the pupils of the eyes will be dilated and unresponsive to light changes.
Siamese Cat Eyes Always Dilated
There’s something about a Siamese cat’s eyes that just draws you in. Perhaps it’s the deep blue color, or the way they seem to always be slightly dilated. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that these cats have some of the most striking eyes in the animal kingdom.
But why are Siamese cat eyes always dilated? It turns out, there are a few reasons. For one, it’s due to a condition called Horner’s syndrome.
This is caused by damage to the nerve that controls the pupil, and results in a constant dilation of the eye on the affected side. It can also be caused by an overactive thyroid gland, which leads to increased blood flow and hence, larger pupils. In some cases, it may also be due to an underlying medical condition such as hypertension or diabetes.
Whatever the cause, those big blue eyes are sure to mesmerize everyone who sees them!
Conclusion
Siamese cats are known for their striking blue eyes, but did you know that they can go blind? The cause is a genetic defect called progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). PRA is a degenerative disease of the retina that leads to blindness.
It is incurable and irreversible. Siamese cats are not the only ones affected by PRA. Other breeds of cats, including Persians and Maine Coons, can also be affected by this disease.
PRA is most common in older cats, but it can occur in younger cats as well. Symptoms include night blindness and difficulty seeing in low light. If your cat shows any signs of vision loss, please take them to the vet immediately.
There is no treatment for PRA, but early diagnosis can help your cat adjust to their new lifestyle and make the most of their remaining time with you.
About Author (Pauline G. Carter)
Pauline G. Carter is a well-known pet blogger who has written about the world of pets for several years. She is passionate about pets, from cats and dogs to birds, reptiles, and poultry. Her blog, which is updated regularly, is filled with articles and guides on pet care, nutrition, and training. She also shares her experiences and observations on pet ownership, making her blog relatable and informative for pet lovers. She is a true animal advocate and is dedicated to promoting responsible pet ownership. Let’s Go …
