Which of the following is a common cause of cataracts in cats?

Cataracts in cats can be caused by several factors, but inherited conditions stand out as a particularly common cause. Inherited cataracts may be present from birth or can develop as the cat ages, and they are often linked to specific breeds that have a genetic predisposition to ocular issues.

While inflammatory processes, trauma, and senile degeneration can contribute to cataract formation, they are not the most prevalent causes in cats when compared to inherited conditions. Inflammatory diseases, for example, might lead to cataracts, but they are generally less common than those related to genetic factors. Trauma can also induce cataracts through direct injury to the eye, but such instances are rare. Senile degeneration typically refers to age-related cataract development, which, although seen in cats, is less frequently the primary cause than inherited cataracts.

Understanding the role of inherited conditions is crucial for veterinary professionals, particularly when evaluating breeds known to be at risk or when advising cat owners on the potential for cataract development in their pets.