Kandue Tawny Buff "Freya" inherited one copy of the variant we tested for Collie Eye Anomaly, Choroidal Hypoplasia, CEA
This variant should not impact Kandue Tawny Buff "Freya"’s health. This variant is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that a dog needs two copies of the variant to show signs of this condition. Kandue Tawny Buff "Freya" is unlikely to develop this condition due to this variant because she only has one copy of the variant.
Named for its high prevalence in Collie dogs, Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is more correctly termed choroidal hypoplasia. The choroid anchors the retina to the underlying structures and supplies it with oxygen and nourishment. CEA is a developmental disease of the choroid.
CEA can be identified by an ophthalmologist when a puppy is 6-8 weeks of age. There are other genetic and environmental factors that likely contribute to the severity of the disease.
A consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist is the ideal way to diagnose CEA. When the specialist examines the back of the eye, they can visualize the thin, pale, and nearly transparent patches of the choroid. In severe cases, they can identify a coloboma, which is an outpouching of the retina.
There is no treatment for CEA, although surgical intervention can help mitigate the signs of the disease in severe cases. If surgery is not an option, lifestyle changes can be made to help blind dogs adapt to their condition. In mild cases no treatment is required.
- In severely affected dogs, keeping furniture in the same location, making sure they are on a leash in unfamiliar territory, and training them to understand verbal commands are some of the ways to help them at home.