Risk factors associated with cataracts and lens luxations in captive pinnipeds in the United States and the Bahamas

Abstract

Diseases of the lens commonly affect captive pinnipeds. Access to UV-protective shade, early identification and medical management of ocular diseases, and prevention of fighting can limit the frequency or severity of lens-related disease in this population. An extended life span may result from captivity, but this also allows development of pathological changes associated with aging, including cataracts.

A retrospective survey of the ocular histopathology of the pinniped eye with emphasis on corneal disease

“…Excessive exposure to UV light, as well as history of fighting, previous ocular disease, and age are also related to increased cataract formation 6,7 . In the present study, cataracts were the second most common disease, second to corneal disease, with 35 globes from 23 affected animals.…”

“…Suspected factors contributing to ocular lesions in captive pinnipeds are age, history of fighting, history of ocular disease, and lack of shade 6,7 . Inadequate shade, which was found to increase the likelihood of ocular disease by ten‐fold in a study by Colitz et al., 6 is thought to be the largest factor.…”

“…Suspected factors contributing to ocular lesions in captive pinnipeds are age, history of fighting, history of ocular disease, and lack of shade 6,7 . Inadequate shade, which was found to increase the likelihood of ocular disease by ten‐fold in a study by Colitz et al., 6 is thought to be the largest factor. Although less common because of newer recommendations, another possible reason for consistent ocular issues in pinnipeds under human care includes housing in freshwater pools 1,8 …”

“…Common ocular pathology found in captive pinnipeds includes corneal lacerations, corneal edema or other opacities, keratitis, cataractous changes, and lens luxations 1,3,6,7,9 . Ocular trauma and cataractous changes are commonly found ocular pathologies noted in wild pinnipeds 4,8 .…”

Pinnipedia

“…11 Another study documented ocular pathology in 81.5% of 27 captive pinnipeds and only 35% of wild submitted ones. Pinniped eyes, as is the case with all marine mammal eyes, are particularly adapted for low-light visual acuity.…”