Detached Retina in Dogs (Retinal Detachment)

  • Synonyms: Amotio retinae
  • Occurrence: rarer
  • Location of disease: Head/Neck
Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 07.07.2026
Open table of contents

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

?

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Download/Print

Definition

Ablatio retinae, also known as retinal detachment, is a serious pathological condition of the eye in which the retina separates from its underlying support layer, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The retina is a light-sensitive tissue layer at the back of the eye responsible for converting light stimuli into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve. In dogs and cats, retinal detachment is less common than in humans but still represents an ophthalmological emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Das Wichtigste auf einen Blick

Ablatio retinae, also called retinal detachment, is a serious condition in which the retina detaches from the underlying pigment epithelium, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness. It can be triggered by various causes, including systemic diseases such as hypertension, traumas, inflammatory processes, or hereditary factors.

Symptoms include behavioral changes indicating visual impairment, such as uncertainty when moving, bumping into objects, or altered pupil reactions. Diagnosis is made through ophthalmoscopic examinations, ultrasound, electroretinography, and, if necessary, OCT.

Treatment depends on the cause and includes conservative measures such as therapy for the underlying disease as well as surgical interventions such as vitrectomy and retinopexy. The prognosis depends heavily on the timing of diagnosis and treatment; early intervention yields the best results.

Aftercare includes regular follow-up examinations, continued treatment of underlying diseases, and, if necessary, adjustments to the environment in case of vision loss. Despite the severity of the disease, many animals can achieve a good quality of life with appropriate treatment and care, even if some vision loss remains.

Ursachen

  • Trauma or eye injuries
  • Severe inflammatory conditions of the eye
  • Degenerative changes in the eye
  • Elevated intraocular pressure (glaucoma)
  • Genetic predisposition in certain breeds

Anatomically, the retina consists of several layers, with the outermost layer containing the photoreceptors (rods and cones). These are responsible for actual light perception. During detachment, the connection between the retina and the pigment epithelium is disrupted, impairing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the photoreceptors. Without this vital supply, photoreceptors begin to die within hours, which can lead to permanent visual disturbances up to blindness.

The causes of retinal detachment in animals are diverse and can be divided into various categories:

Rhegmatogenous Ablatio Retinae

This form occurs through a tear in the retina, through which fluid from the vitreous space can penetrate into the subretinal space. Triggers can include traumas, degenerative changes of the vitreous body, or spontaneous tears. In older animals, age-related changes of the vitreous body can lead to traction forces that cause retinal tears.

Exudative (serous) ablatio retinae

In this form, fluid accumulates between the retina and pigment epithelium without a tear being present. Inflammatory conditions, vascular changes, or systemic diseases are often the cause. Systemic hypertension, which often accompanies kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a significant risk factor. Tumors, abscesses, or vascular disorders can also lead to exudative detachments.

Tractional Ablatio Retinae

This form is caused by traction forces acting on the retina. Fibrovascular membranes or scar tissue forming on the retinal surface can mechanically distort and eventually detach the retina. This often occurs in connection with proliferative retinopathies or severe intraocular inflammatory conditions.

Congenital or Hereditary Factors

Certain dog breeds show a genetic predisposition for retinal diseases that can cause detachments. These include Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and other hereditary retinopathies. Particularly susceptible breeds include Collies, Shelties, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Systemic Diseases

Various systemic diseases can secondarily lead to retinal detachments. These include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases, hyperthyroidism (especially in cats), hyperadrenocorticism, and various autoimmune diseases. These underlying conditions often lead to changes in blood vessels or inflammatory reactions that can compromise the integrity of the retina.

Symptoms

Rare symptoms:

Symptoms of retinal detachment can vary depending on the extent and location. Since animals cannot directly communicate their vision problems, it is important for pet owners to watch for behavioral changes that could indicate visual impairment.

In cases of partial retinal detachment, affected animals often show subtle signs such as slight uncertainty in unfamiliar surroundings or when climbing stairs. They may also bump into objects more frequently, especially if they are in their peripheral field of vision. Some animals appear more anxious or reserved than usual because they can no longer fully perceive their environment.

In advanced or complete detachments, symptoms become more obvious. Animals may suddenly have difficulty orienting themselves, finding familiar paths, or reacting to movements. They move more cautiously, with their head held high, and may hesitate when jumping down from elevated positions. Increased blinking or heightened sensitivity to light is also frequently observed.

Ophthalmologically, some animals may show dilated pupils (mydriasis) that do not react or only react slowly to light. In secondary inflammation or bleeding, redness, cloudiness, or increased tear production may also occur. In some cases, an abnormal reflex from the inside of the eye is visible when viewed directly with a light source.

It is important to note that retinal detachment is painless in many cases, which is why animals show no obvious signs of discomfort. This can lead to the condition being detected late, worsening the prognosis.

Diagnose

  • Fundoscopy to examine the retina
  • Ultrasound of the eye to confirm the detachment and assess its extent
  • Imaging procedures such as OCT for detailed examination of retinal structure

Ophthalmoscopy (direct and indirect): This is the classic standard procedure for examining the ocular fundus. In cases of detachment, a partially to completely gray-white, bulging area is often visible. In total detachment, the retina may protrude into the vitreous body like a “sail” or “umbrella.”

Ultrasound examination (B-scan sonography): This is the central diagnostic method for opaque optical media (e.g., in cases of cataracts or vitreous bleeding) to indirectly assess retinal detachment. It is useful for evaluating the extent and form (flat, bullous, total detachment) of the retinal detachment.

Electroretinography (ERG): This is used to test retinal function (especially the photoreceptors). In cases of extensive detachment, severely reduced or absent responses are observed. This diagnostic method helps in making prognostic decisions (e.g., whether surgery is advisable).

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This is currently one of the most modern methods for high-resolution imaging of retinal structures. This diagnostic method is increasingly available in specialized veterinary ophthalmology centers. It allows for the precise visualization of defects, subretinal fluid accumulation, and changes in individual retinal layers.

Therapie

  • Surgical interventions such as vitrectomy or the introduction of silicone oil or gas to reposition the retina
  • Laser therapy or cryotherapy to repair retinal tears and prevent further detachments
  • Scleral buckle
  • Treatment of the underlying cause of the detachment

Conservative therapy

  • Blood pressure control: Blood pressure regulation is essential, especially in cases of exudative and hypertensive retinal detachment. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II blockers, or other antihypertensive medications can reduce fluid accumulation.
  • Therapy for underlying diseases: e.g., kidney disease, hyperthyroidism (very rare in dogs, more common in cats), hyperadrenocorticism.
  • Glucocorticoids or other anti-inflammatory medications may be indicated for immune-mediated or inflammatory causes, such as uveitis.

Surgical therapy

  • Vitrectomy with retinopexy (laser or cryotherapy) to stabilize the retina.
  • Silicone oil or gas tamponade: Keeps the retina stable in attachment to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) following the procedure.
  • In tractional detachments, connective tissue can be surgically removed to eliminate traction forces.

Prognose und Nachsorge

The prognosis for retinal detachment depends on various factors, including the cause, extent and duration of the detachment, and the speed of treatment. Generally: the earlier the treatment, the better the chances of preserving or restoring visual function.

In cases of exudative detachment caused by systemic diseases such as hypertension, the prognosis is relatively good if the underlying condition can be successfully treated. Many animals regain part of their vision once blood pressure is normalized and the retina reattaches.

For rhegmatogenous or tractional detachments, the prognosis is more guarded. The success of surgical interventions depends heavily on the extent of damage already sustained by the photoreceptors. After about 72 hours without supply, photoreceptors begin to die irreversibly, which limits functional recovery.

Aftercare following treatment is crucial for long-term success. Regular follow-up examinations are necessary to monitor the healing process and detect potential complications early. For surgical procedures involving gas or oil tamponades, specific behavioral rules must be followed to ensure the optimal position of the tamponade.

Medical aftercare often includes anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops, as well as continued treatment of underlying diseases. For animals with permanent vision loss, adapting the environment is important to enable safe orientation.

Long-term, regular monitoring of intraocular pressure and the ocular fundus is important, as animals with retinal detachment may have an increased risk of further eye complications such as glaucoma or recurrent detachments.

Prävention

Prevention of retinal detachment mainly focuses on controlling the underlying diseases that can trigger it. These include hypertension, severe inflammatory conditions, or eye injuries. Regular ophthalmic examinations, especially for genetically predisposed breeds, are crucial. Impacts or traumas to the head should be avoided, and eye injuries should receive immediate veterinary care. For older dogs and animals with systemic diseases, annual blood pressure measurement is recommended. A balanced diet containing antioxidant nutrients can support eye health. Early detection of vision problems is key to preventing irreversible vision loss.

Ausblick auf aktuelle Forschung

Research in the field of veterinary ophthalmology is making continuous progress, which also impacts the diagnosis and treatment of retinal detachments. Current developments focus on several promising areas.

In diagnostics, high-resolution imaging techniques such as spectral optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and OCT angiography are increasingly being used. These technologies enable more detailed visualization of retinal structures and retinal perfusion, leading to more precise diagnosis and treatment planning. Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used for automated analysis of these complex image data, which could improve early detection of retinal changes.

In the field of surgical therapy, minimally invasive techniques are being further developed, which place less traumatic stress on the eye and allow for shorter recovery times. New materials for intraocular tamponades with improved properties regarding compatibility and duration of action are being researched. The development of specialized microsurgical instruments for veterinary ophthalmology is also progressing.

A promising field of research is regenerative medicine. Stem cell therapies for the regeneration of damaged retinal cells are still in the experimental phase. Initial studies on laboratory animals show that transplanted retinal progenitor cells can integrate into the retina and establish functional connections. However, the translation of these approaches into clinical veterinary medicine is still pending.

Pharmacological approaches are also being intensively researched. Neuroprotective substances could prolong the survival of photoreceptors after a retinal detachment and thus expand the window for successful treatment. Antiangiogenic factors are being studied for the treatment of proliferative retinopathies that can lead to tractional retinal detachments.

Genetic research is making progress in identifying risk genes for hereditary retinal diseases. This could in the future lead to targeted breeding programs and possibly gene therapeutic approaches to prevent or treat hereditary forms of retinal detachment.

Close collaboration between human and veterinary medicine, in line with the One Health concept, leads to an accelerated transfer of knowledge, from which both sides benefit. Many treatment approaches from human ophthalmology are being adapted and optimized for use in animals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is ablatio retinae (retinal detachment) in dogs?
In ablatio retinae, the retina in the dog's eye detaches completely or partially from its base (the pigment epithelium). The retina is responsible for converting light stimuli into nerve impulses. If it detaches, light signals are no longer transmitted correctly, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness. Background: According to information found on specialist portals (e.g., petsvetcheck.de), rapid detection is essential because persistent detachment can lead to irreversible damage.
2. How can I recognize a possible retinal detachment in my dog?
Dog owners often notice subtle changes in their animal's behavior. These include: - Uncertainty when walking, especially in unfamiliar surroundings - Bumping into objects - Frequent blinking, dilated pupils - Shyness toward bright light sources - Occasionally redness or clouding in the eye if inflammation or bleeding is involved. According to petsvetcheck.de, general restlessness, unwillingness to go for walks, or unusual anxiety can also be indications of visual impairment. If these symptoms occur, a prompt veterinary eye examination is recommended.
3. What Causes Can Trigger Ablatio Retinae in Dogs?
Several factors can be triggers: - Hereditary predisposition (genetic factors): Certain breeds have a higher risk of retina problems (e.g., Collies, Retrievers). - High blood pressure (hypertension): This can lead to vascular damage in the eye. This is particularly relevant in older dogs or those with kidney diseases. - Inflammatory conditions or infections: Uveitis or other inflammatory conditions in the eye can promote detachment. - Traumas: Falls, car accidents, or other head injuries. - Systemic diseases: Diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases, autoimmune diseases, etc. Petsvetcheck.de emphasizes that treating an underlying disease (e.g., blood pressure regulation) often plays a crucial role in preventing the progression of the detachment.
4. How is retinal detachment diagnosed in dogs?
Diagnosis usually includes: - General eye examination: Checking pupillary response, ocular fundus structures using an ophthalmoscope. - Ultrasound examination of the eye: If the retina in the eye is not clearly visible (e.g., due to Bleeding, cloudiness), an ultrasound can provide more precise information. - Tonometry (measurement of intraocular pressure): to differentiate from glaucoma. - Blood tests: to rule out or identify underlying diseases (kidney values, blood sugar, blood pressure measurement). According to veterinary medicine overviews (e.g., petsvetcheck.de), early diagnosis is urgent because successful treatment depends heavily on how quickly one reacts.
5. Are there dog breeds that are particularly susceptible to retinal detachment?
There are some breeds in which a hereditary disposition for retinal diseases has been described. These include Collies, Shelties, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and certain other breeds. Note: It is recommended to have regular preventive examinations for these breeds. Especially in older dogs or those with known pre-existing conditions (e.g., heart disease, hypertension), intraocular pressure and the ocular fundus should be checked more frequently.
6. How is retinal detachment treated in dogs?
Therapy depends on the cause and severity of the detachment: - Medical therapy: If an underlying disease such as hypertension or an inflammatory condition (uveitis) is present, it is treated specifically (e.g., antihypertensives, antibiotics, corticosteroids). - Surgical interventions: In individual cases, operations such as laser therapy or vitrectomies may be considered. However, these procedures are highly specialized and not available everywhere. - Stabilizing measures: Rest, avoidance of further traumas, control of blood values and intraocular pressure. Websites like petsvetcheck.de emphasize that quick action is important, as the chance of retinal reattachment decreases with every hour, especially in cases of acute detachment.
7. What is the prognosis for a dog with retinal detachment?
The prognosis depends heavily on the time of diagnosis and the extent of the detachment. - Early detection: The faster the cause is identified and treated, the higher the probability that part of the vision will be preserved or improved. - Full detachment: In the case of a total retinal detachment, the prospect of restoring vision is low. - Controlling the underlying disease: For systemic causes (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), the prognosis may be better if the disease is treated effectively. As petsvetcheck.de states, regular check-ups after therapy are essential to detect and treat possible relapses early.
8. Can Ablatio Retinae be Prevented in Dogs?
Direct prevention of retina detachment is only partially possible, but preventive measures can reduce the risk: - Regular eye examinations, especially in at-risk breeds. - Control of underlying diseases such as hypertension or diabetes. - Avoidance of traumas: For older dogs or dogs with impaired vision, unnecessary risks (e.g., jumping from great heights) should be reduced. - Balanced diet: Helps keep systemic diseases like diabetes in check. Veterinary websites such as petsvetcheck.de additionally emphasize that early treatment of eye inflammatory conditions or infections can prevent possible detachment.
9. What Aftercare is Important after Treatment or Surgery?
- Regular check-ups: To monitor the healing process and quickly detect new detachments or complications (e.g., inflammatory conditions). - Medication management: If eye drops, antihypertensives, or other medications have been prescribed, strict adherence to the therapy plan is crucial. - Stress reduction and eye protection: Avoid situations where the dog could injure its head (e.g., confined spaces, slippery floors). - Long-term monitoring of underlying diseases: If a cause for retina detachment is known (e.g., hypertension), it must be treated permanently. According to petsvetcheck.de, it makes sense to maintain close communication with the veterinarian as part of the aftercare in order to optimally support the recovery process.
10. Can a Dog with (Partial) Vision Loss Still Lead a Good Life?
Yes, in many cases, dogs can adapt surprisingly well to reduced vision or even blindness. - Orientation and sense of smell: Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell and hearing, so they can cope well even in familiar environments. - Adjustments in everyday life: Avoiding rearranging furniture at home and maintaining a structured environment help. - Patience and training: With targeted training, the dog learns to follow commands even without visual signals. As highlighted by platforms such as petsvetcheck.de, safety in everyday life (e.g., avoiding falls down stairs, sharp edges) plays a major role in ensuring that a visually impaired dog can continue to lead a largely normal and happy life.

Literatur

  • Yoshida, G., & Umeda, Y. (2026). Comparison of the incidence of postoperative ocular hypertension after pars plana vitrectomy and phacoemulsification and aspiration in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.26.01.0030
  • Umeda, Y., Yoshida, G., & Watanabe, N. (2025). Comparison of 27- and 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy for the treatment of canine rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 263(8), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.24.12.0809
  • Lieberman, J. S., Keys, D. A., & Moore, P. A. (2025). Frequency of retinal detachments in dogs after prophylactic transpupillary retinopexy. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 28(6), 910–916. https://doi.org/10.1111/vop.13267
  • Beckwith-Cohen, B., & Petersen-Jones, S. M. (2024). Manifestations of systemic disease in the retina and fundus of cats and dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 11, Article 1337062. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1337062
  • Hirashima, S., Takiyama, N., & Umeda, Y. (2022). Outcome of 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy via a lateral approach without proptosis of the globe: A retrospective study in 72 dogs (78 eyes). Veterinary Ophthalmology, 25(1), 23–30. https://doi.org/10.1111/vop.12912
  • Stromberg, S. J., Yan, J., Wisner, T. G., & Good, K. L. (2021). Clinical features and MRI characteristics of retinal detachment in dogs and cats. Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound, 62(6), 666–673. https://doi.org/10.1111/vru.12999
  • Cole, L. P., Jepson, R., Dawson, C., & Humm, K. (2020). Hypertension, retinopathy, and acute kidney injury in dogs: A prospective study. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 34(5), 1940–1947. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15839
  • Acierno, M. J., Brown, S., Coleman, A. E., Jepson, R. E., Papich, M., Stepien, R. L., & Syme, H. M. (2018). ACVIM consensus statement: Guidelines for the identification, evaluation, and management of systemic hypertension in dogs and cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 32(6), 1803–1822. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15331
  • Hoffman, A., Sisler, S., Pappania, M., Hsu, K., Ross, M., & Ofri, R. (2018). Electroretinography is a prognostic indicator for postoperative vision in dogs undergoing retinal reattachment surgery. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 21(3), 273–280. https://doi.org/10.1111/vop.12505
  • Spatola, R. A., Nadelstein, B., Leber, A. C., & Berdoulay, A. (2015). Preoperative findings and visual outcome associated with retinal reattachment surgery in dogs: 217 cases (275 eyes). Veterinary Ophthalmology, 18(6), 485–496. https://doi.org/10.1111/vop.12246