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  Discussion on Supplements and cataract treatment
Author Message
New Member:
peppi

Posted on Friday, Jun 20, 2008 - 9:34 am:

Our 24-year-old QH has developed cataracts and they are progressing quite quickly, unfortunately. Though she is in perfect health and has a history of healing well and fast, she is not a candidate for surgery apparently due to her age.
I have read, however, that supplementing with therapeutic doses of methionine can inhibit cataract development. Methionine is a component of an enzyme in the lens of the eye. You need way more than is in hoof supplements and vitamins... has anyone else tried this, or heard of it?
I have also heard about melatonin but due to the mare's age, she may develop Cushings/equine metabolic disorder in future, and I don't want to play around with hormones.
Best wishes,
jane
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Saturday, Jun 21, 2008 - 6:51 am:

Hello Jane,
There is a role in methionine and cataracts development as well as other cellular problems but I am uncertain supplementation helpful. The problem is not methionine deficiency but the accumulation of methionine sulfoxide (MetO) that is the problem. The reason for accumulation is the deficiency of an enzyme that reduces this reactive oxygen molecule, methionine sulfoxide reductase A. My understanding of the process is uncertain but it strikes me that increasing methionine in the diet may increase accumulation of Metal or at the very least it is difficult to see how it may help.
DrO
Member:
ekaufman

Posted on Saturday, Jun 21, 2008 - 3:38 pm:

Hi Jane,

I can't give any advice, but I can share a story. I have a 23yo paint gelding that I got 5 years ago as a companion for my stallion. He was a great baby raiser, but was a worrier and afraid of everything. He developed cataracts very rapidly about 18 months ago, and I was really concerned that this worried horse would absolutely fall apart with such limited vision.

As it turned out, what he can't see doesn't scare him, and I told my vet he might have benefited from a prophylactic eye removal much earlier in life (kidding). He hooks his muzzle in my elbow to be led, and follows me cheerfully wherever, and has an overall good quality of life.

So it's a bad thing for a working horse, but may not be the end of a happy life, depending on how the horse feels about the world....

Good luck!
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