Cataracts in Siberian Huskies: Signs, Genes and Eye Screening

If you share your home with a Siberian Husky, hereditary cataracts are the eye condition worth knowing about. The breed's own US club says they are the most common of the inherited eye conditions it screens for, and they often start while the dog is still young [2][4].

What are hereditary cataracts in Huskies?

• A cataract is cloudiness in the lens inside the eye [3].
• The cloudiness blocks light from reaching the back of the eye properly, so vision can drop from slightly to completely [3].
• In Huskies, the inherited type usually affects both eyes. It starts as a small spot at the back of the lens and can spread over time [5].

In one large historical screening dataset of 1,345 Siberian Huskies, 8% had inherited cataracts [4]. The club notes this is older data, not a current national figure [4].

At what age do cataracts appear in Huskies?

Usually young. One veterinary reference lists onset in this breed from 6 months of age or older [2]. A 2025 study describes it as typically starting at around 9 months to 2 years of age [1]. The cloudiness can then progress [1].

Are cataracts in Huskies inherited?

Yes, the condition runs in the breed, but the genetics are not simple [1].

• A 2025 study linked common changes in a gene region called CPT1A to this cataract type [1].
• These changes are common in the breed, yet many dogs that carry them never develop cataracts [1].
• The researchers say the disease is likely complex, involving several genes plus other factors, not one simple inherited switch [1].
• For that reason, the study states these gene changes are not suitable for a preventive DNA test [1].

It is not an infection. A dog can't catch it from another dog [1][3].

Which other breeds get it?

Inherited cataracts are seen in many dog breeds [2][3]. The same CPT1A gene region is also linked to this cataract type in the Samoyed, Icelandic Sheepdog and Norwegian Buhund, with a weaker link in the Alaskan Malamute [1].

What are the signs of cataracts in dogs?

Early vision loss is easy to miss, because dogs lean heavily on hearing and smell [3]. Book a vet visit if your Husky has:

• A cloudy, whitish or bluish-grey haze in one or both eyes, especially from around 6 months of age [2][3].
• More cautious movement, or bumping into furniture or objects [3].
• Staying closer to you than usual, or trouble seeing in bright or dim light [3].

Don't wait: Any sudden change in your dog's vision or eye appearance should be checked by a vet promptly. Some causes can threaten sight if not assessed quickly [8].

Only a licensed vet or a veterinary eye specialist (ophthalmologist) can tell what's behind these signs. Diabetes is a separate cause of cataracts in dogs, which is one more reason to have the eyes checked [3].

What is a Husky eye screening exam (CAER)?

Eye screening is a way for breeders and owners to learn more about a dog's eyes. It is not the same as a routine check-up.

• The Siberian Husky Club of America recognises two screening routes: the Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER), run through OFA, and the club's own Siberian Husky Ophthalmic Registry (SHOR) [4][6].
• The exam is done by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, not a general vet [4].
• Eye drops are used to widen the pupils. The dog's vision and light sensitivity can be affected for about 6 to 8 hours afterwards [7].
• Dogs that pass receive a certificate that can be looked up publicly [6][7].

Inherited eye conditions can show up later in life, so one clear puppy exam is no guarantee. The breed club and ACVO recommend re-checking every year, and Husky eye clearances are valid for one year [4][6][7].

Can hereditary cataracts be prevented?

No diet, supplement or home care in the sources prevents it in a dog that carries the breed's risk [1][4]. Prevention mainly happens before a puppy is born: responsible breeders use yearly eye exams by a specialist when choosing which dogs to breed [1][4].

Did you know? Some uncertain eye findings are recorded as "breeder option", a judgement call, rather than a pass or fail [5][6][7].

FAQ

Is there a DNA test for cataracts in Huskies?

Not a reliable one. The 2025 study found the known gene changes do not predict which individual dog will develop cataracts [1].

What should I ask a Husky breeder about eyes?

Ask whether both parents, and ideally the grandparents, have current yearly CAER or SHOR eye certificates, and ask to see them [4].

Can cataracts spread from one dog to another?

No. Hereditary cataracts are genetic, not an infection [1][3].

Do Huskies get other eye conditions?

Yes. The breed club also screens for corneal dystrophy and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), both recorded as less common than cataracts [4]. PRA can also lead to cataracts later, so a vet may check the back of the eye too [8].

Can cataracts in Huskies be treated?

Only a licensed vet or veterinary ophthalmologist can examine your dog's eyes and talk you through the options.