How will my animal cope with vision loss?
Initially, some animals may feel more anxious or unsettled after losing their vision, although this can vary based on how quickly the vision loss occurs. Animals who experience gradual vision loss are often better able to adjust to their surroundings, while those with sudden vision loss may take 1-2 months to fully adapt. Dogs and cats rely more on their other senses—such as touch, smell, and hearing—than humans do, and they will typically learn to depend on these senses after losing their sight. Even though your pet may be blind, they can still lead a fulfilling life and resume many of the activities they enjoyed before vision loss. With time and support, pets often adapt remarkably well to their new way of interacting with the world.
Are there tips on how to adjust with my pet with no vision?
- Consistency and routine are vital to helping a blind dog. Keeping the home familiar with minimal rearrangement will allow them to navigate through memory alone. When going on a walk, going to the same park and walking route will help keep your dog relaxed when out of the house.
- Consider getting a tag or harness which lets the general public know your pet is blind. This can make people think about approaching quickly, not startling them and being more cautious with their movements. You’re pet’s behaviour with other dogs may change so letting others owners know may be important.
- Putting bells on other animals at home may help your pet know that the other dog or cat is nearby. Often these dogs will begin to rely more significantly on the other dog at home to help them navigate around the house.
- Toys that give treats, squeak or talk are enriching for blind dogs as they do not have a visual stimulus and rely more on sounds and textures.
- Toys, shoes, clothes and other objects on the floor can quickly become tripping hazards for the blind dog; keeping the home clean and clear from clutter in areas they visit quickly will make a safer environment for them to navigate.
- Textured rugs and mats can allow your pet to create a mind map of where important locations in the house are. For example near outside doors or at the top and bottom of the stairs. They will get a textured stimulus from walking on the way to the stairs and provide a clue to remember where they are in the house.
- Having a fountain-style water bowl can help as the continuous water circulation will make noise and help your dog find it.
- Sharp corners and stairs can be tricky for a blind dog initially. Using corner protectors on sharp furniture and baby gates at the tops of stairs initially can help your dog safely manoeuvre around the house. Do not leave them unattended around pools of other areas where they could potentially hurt themselves.
- Placing a drop of essential oils on corners and edges around the home will give your pet something to smell as they walk around the house to stop them from bumping into hazards. Note some essential oils can be toxic, so do not use them if your dog is likely to start licking them.
Are there any visual aids for pet?
Many pets do very well with a well sighted companion. Be aware introducing a new pet to the home whilst your pet adjusts to blindness may be difficult.