Risk factors associated with cataracts and lens luxations in captive pinnipeds in the United States and the Bahamas.

Objective-To determine risk factors for lens luxation and cataracts in captive pinnipeds in the United States and the Bahamas. Design-Cross-sectional study. Animals-111 pinnipeds (99 California sea lions [Zalophus californianus], 10 harbor seals [Phoca vitulina], and 2 walruses [Odobenus rosmarus]) from 9 facilities. Procedures Eyes of each pinniped were examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist for the presence of cataracts or lens luxations and photographed. Information detailing husbandry practices, history, and facilities was collected with a questionnaire, and descriptive statistical analyses were performed for continuous and categorical variables. Odds ratios and associated 95% confidence intervals were estimated from the final model. Results Risk factors for lens luxation, cataracts, or both included age 15 years, history of fighting, history of ocular disease, and insufficient access to shade. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Diseases of the lens commonly affect captive pinnipeds. Access to UV-protective shade, early identification and medical management of ocular diseases, and prevention of fighting can limit the frequency or severity of lens-related disease in this population. An extended life span may result from captivity, but this also allows development of pathological changes associated with aging, including cataracts. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;237:429-436)