JAMES HARRIS, DVM
Vitamins won't cure bird's cataracts
 My 16-month-old green-cheek conure can't see well. The vet found a cataract on her right eye and one developing on her left eye. The vet does not know much about it and I don't know what to do. Isn't she too young for cataracts? I read that vitamin B2 can cure it - is this true?
--Leila
 When the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and light cannot pass through and reach the retina, it's called a cataract. While age can play a role, cataracts can occur in any creature at any time due to genetics, disease or trauma. Additional tests may reveal the cause of your bird's cataracts. Knowing the history of the bird's parents and grandparents would help determine if there is a genetic cause. Cataracts can be removed surgically by a competent veterinary ophthamologist. Vitamins do not cure cataracts.
James Harris, DVM is owner and medical director of the Mayfair Veterinary Clinic in Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia. He founded Montclair Veterinary Hospital in Oakland, Calif., and has served as medical director and chairman of the board for the International Bird Rescue Research Center in Berkeley. Dr. Harris' numerous professional honors include California and National Bustad Companion Animal DVM Awards.
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