Health Condition

Collie Eye Anomaly

A congenital defect affecting the development of the choroid, retina, and optic nerve, leading to variable vision impairment.

Detailed Description

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is a hereditary condition present at birth that can cause mild to severe vision problems. It is caused by improper development of the eye structures and is most commonly inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.

Common Symptoms

Variable vision impairment
May be asymptomatic
Retinal detachment in severe cases

Management Options

Environmental adaptation
Monitoring for complications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can CEA be cured?

No, but most affected dogs adapt well unless complications arise.

Is genetic testing available?

Yes, for known CEA mutations in some breeds.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

Congenital (present at birth)

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Testing Available

Yes

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Diagnosing Methods

Ophthalmic examination; Genetic testing (where available)

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Preventative Measures

Screen breeding stock; Genetic testing and avoid breeding carriers

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Related Conditions

Progressive retinal atrophy, Retinal dysplasia

Affected Breeds

American Leopard Hound

Severity: 3/5

CEA is rare but reported in the breed. Most cases are mild, but severe cases can cause significant vision impairment.

Australian Kelpie

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 2/5

CEA is less common in Australian Kelpies than in Collies but is present and can cause vision impairment or blindness in severe cases.

Australian Shepherd

Prevalence: 7.5% Severity: 3/5

Australian Shepherds have a higher risk of CEA compared to most breeds, with both mild and severe forms present in the population.

Bearded Collie

Severity: 2/5

CEA is rare in Bearded Collies but confirmed cases exist; risk is higher than the general canine population but lower than in Collies.

Border Collie

Prevalence: 2% Severity: 4/5

CEA is a well-documented inherited disorder in Border Collies, with both affected and carrier rates higher than in most non-collie breeds.

Boykin Spaniel

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 3/5

CEA is more common in Boykin Spaniels than in most non-collie breeds, with both carriers and affected individuals present.

Collie

Prevalence: 85% Severity: 1/5

Collies have the highest prevalence of CEA among all breeds, with most cases being mild but a small percentage suffering severe vision loss.

Hokkaido

Prevalence: 10% Severity: 4/5

CEA is a documented concern in Hokkaido dogs, with prevalence estimates ranging from 2–10% in Japanese population studies. The risk is higher than average compared to the general canine population and similar to other Japanese spitz-type breeds.

Lancashire Heeler

Prevalence: 12.5% Severity: 3/5

CEA is recognized as a breed concern in Lancashire Heelers, with a higher prevalence than in most breeds.

Miniature American Shepherd

Prevalence: 10% Severity: 2/5

CEA is more common in MAS than in the general canine population, with most cases being mild and non-progressive.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Prevalence: 10% Severity: 2/5

Carrier rate in NSDTRs is estimated at 10-15%. Most cases are mild and do not affect vision. Higher prevalence than average compared to general canine population.

Pyrenean Shepherd

Severity: 2/5

Prevalence is low but present; considered a breed concern. Lower than Collies/Shelties, but higher than average for non-herding breeds.

Shetland Sheepdog

Prevalence: 38% Severity: 3/5

Shelties have a high prevalence of CEA, with up to 48% affected and 68% carriers in some populations. The condition is often mild but can cause blindness if severe.

Working Kelpie

Prevalence: 3% Severity: 4/5

CEA is documented in Working Kelpies, with most cases being mild but severe cases can occur. Prevalence is lower than in Collies but higher than in the general canine population.

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