Progressive retinal atrophy has no treatment and no cure — your cat will go blind. PRA is an inherited disease where the retina slowly degenerates over months to years. By the time most owners notice — bumping into furniture in dim light, dilated pupils, reluctance to move in unfamiliar spaces — significant vision is already lost. Diagnosis costs $200-$500, but there's nothing medicine can do to stop it.
Progressive retinal atrophy is a group of inherited genetic diseases that cause the photoreceptor cells in the retina to degenerate over time. The rod cells (responsible for night vision) are typically affected first, followed by cone cells (color and detail vision). Different gene mutations cause PRA in different breeds — the rdAc mutation is common in Abyssinians and Somalis. It's autosomal recessive, meaning both parents must carry the gene. An inherited, progressive, incurable eye disease
Night blindness is usually the first sign — your cat becomes hesitant in dim light, bumps into objects, or is reluctant to jump in poorly lit rooms. Pupils become progressively more dilated and may appear to glow more in photos. Increased eye shine (tapetum reflection). Reluctance to navigate unfamiliar environments. Eventually, complete blindness in both eyes. Vision loss is gradual — some cats compensate so well owners don't notice for months. Night blindness is the earliest sign
Veterinary ophthalmologist exam with direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy reveals retinal changes — thinning, blood vessel attenuation, and increased reflectivity. Electroretinography (ERG) can detect PRA before clinical signs appear by measuring retinal cell response to light. DNA testing ($100-$200) identifies carrier status and confirms the specific mutation. Both eyes are always affected. Average $200-$500
There is no treatment, no surgery, and no medication that can stop or reverse PRA. The retina will continue to degenerate until complete blindness occurs. Antioxidant supplements are sometimes recommended but have no proven benefit in cats. The focus shifts to adapting the home environment — keep furniture in consistent positions, use scent markers, avoid rearranging rooms, and block access to hazards like stairs. No cure exists — focus on adaptation
Diagnosis only. There's no ongoing treatment cost beyond routine vet visits. DNA testing for breeding cats adds $100-$200. $200-$500 for complete diagnosis.
Timeline varies by breed and mutation. Some cats lose vision over 1-2 years, others over 5+. Complete blindness is inevitable, but cats adapt remarkably well.
DNA test breeding cats before mating. Never breed two carriers together. Responsible breeding is the only way to eliminate PRA from affected lines.
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Diagnosis only.
Most policies cover the diagnostic workup — ophthalmologist exams, electroretinography, and related testing. The standard 14-day illness waiting period applies. Since there's no treatment for PRA, ongoing coverage provides limited financial benefit. The main value is covering the specialist diagnosis, which can cost $200-$500.
PRA is a hereditary condition, and some budget policies exclude hereditary conditions from coverage entirely. If you have an Abyssinian, Somali, or Persian, check whether your policy covers inherited diseases. Even the diagnostic costs may be denied if your insurer excludes hereditary conditions. Premium plans typically cover the diagnosis regardless.
Unlike most conditions on this site, PRA has a relatively low total cost of $200-$500 since there's no treatment. Insurance value here is more about peace of mind than financial protection. Your deductible alone may exceed the total diagnosis cost. PRA is one condition where insurance doesn't dramatically change the financial picture.
Blind cats can injure themselves — falls, collisions, and accidents are more common. Insurance that covers accident-related injuries becomes more valuable once your cat loses vision. Some cats develop anxiety or behavioral changes that require veterinary attention. These secondary issues are typically covered as separate incidents.
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Our guide shows exactly what to check in the fine print — before your first claim gets denied.
Insurance GuideBreeds Most Affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy
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