When should I suspect retinal degeneration?

If your pet shows reduced night vision, frequently bumps into furniture, suddenly avoids light, or has fluctuating vision, schedule an eye exam to assess retinal function.

Is an electroretinography (ERG) test necessary?

ERG evaluates photoreceptor function in the retina and is important for diagnosing retinal disease and assessing prognosis. Whether it is needed will be decided by the ophthalmologist.

Can retinal degeneration be treated or can vision be restored?

Whether vision can be restored depends on the cause and stage of the condition. Some cases can be controlled or improved, while others are progressive. Speak with your vet about the prognosis and care options for your pet.

What information should I bring to the appointment?

Bring videos of your pet walking during the day and at night, a record of when symptoms started and how they have progressed, current medications, and any previous test reports to help your vet assess the condition quickly.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Retinal Degeneration in Dogs & Cats: Vision Loss, Eye Exams & Home Care [2025]

Progressive retinal degeneration leading to vision loss with no curative treatment

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVO, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Sudden collapse or brief loss of consciousness with inability to be roused
•Sudden paralysis of the hind limbs or full body, unable to stand on their own
•Sudden complete vision loss accompanied by obvious lethargy or depression

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Frequently bumping into furniture or obstacles at night
•Altered light response — often avoiding or flinching from light sources
•Intermittent vision changes; difficulty navigating familiar routes

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Retinal degeneration typically presents as gradual or sudden vision loss with behavioural changes that may affect night or daytime activity.

Reduced night vision, frequently bumping into furniture or obstacles
Altered response to light or obvious avoidance of bright light
Fluctuating vision, difficulty navigating familiar routes
May coincide with systemic signs such as increased thirst, urination, or appetite changes
Reduced energy or activity levels requiring further systemic evaluation

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Sudden paralysis or complete inability to move the hind limbs
⚠️ Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness — seek emergency veterinary care immediately

02How to Assess Abnormalities at Home: Key Observations and Emergency Criteria

Recording vision and behavioural changes at home helps your vet assess disease progression and prioritise examinations.

Track changes in urination frequency and water intake over time
Film short videos of your pet walking during the day and at night for the vet's reference
Note changes in alertness, activity level, and appetite
Record when you first noticed the problem and how quickly it has progressed
Organise your notes and arrange an ophthalmology consultation as soon as possible

03How Will the Vet Diagnose the Condition? Common Diagnostic Tests

A thorough ophthalmology and systemic workup will be performed to identify the cause of vision loss and rule out reversible conditions.

Fundoscopy

examination of the retina and optic disc

Pupil dilation to allow a full fundal assessment

Electroretinography (ERG)

assessment of retinal function

Intraocular pressure and blood pressure measurement to rule out other ocular or systemic disease

Blood and metabolic tests to check for underlying systemic disease

Imaging (CT or MRI) if needed to evaluate brain or ocular lesions

Referral to a specialist hospital with ophthalmology expertise and ERG capability is recommended

04Post-Diagnosis Treatment and Care: Medications, Diet Adjustments, and Care Guide

Treatment and monitoring depend on the underlying cause and may include medication, surgery, or supportive care, with regular check-ups to evaluate vision and fundal changes.

Your vet will assess whether medication or surgery is required based on the underlying cause
Nutritional supplements or antioxidants may be recommended as supportive care
Modify the home environment to reduce the risk of collisions, falls, and injuries
Schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor vision and fundal changes
Bring videos or records to compare progress at each visit; arrange specialist long-term follow-up if needed

05What to Prepare Before Your Appointment: Key Information to Help Your Vet

Note when symptoms started, how quickly they have progressed, and any related events

Record your pet's water intake, urination, and bowel movements over the past week

Bring phone videos of your pet walking and behaving during the day and at night

Prepare a list of all current medications and supplements

Bring any previous test results or imaging reports if available

Book an appointment at a clinic that can perform fundoscopy and ERG for a complete evaluation

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.