Third eyelid up over one eye on a cat

Hello there! It sounds like you're noticing something unusual with your kitty's eye. When a cat's third eyelid, also known as the nictitating membrane, is visible over part of their eye, it can be a sign of several things.



One common cause is irritation or an eye infection. Your kitty might have gotten a bit of dust in their eye or experienced a mild scratch. Sometimes, the third eyelid will show if they're feeling a bit under the weather in general, indicating they're fighting off a minor illness.



Another possibility is dehydration or a more systemic condition if coupled with other symptoms like lethargy or poor appetite. In these cases, it's important to keep an eye on any new developments.



At home, you can gently wipe around your cat's eye with a clean, damp cotton pad to remove any discharge, but avoid touching the eye itself. Ensure your cat stays hydrated and monitor their overall behavior.



Watch for signs of distress like excessive squinting, redness, pawing at the eye, or if the third eyelid covers more of the eye over a few days. If these occur, it could indicate a more serious issue like an infection or injury that needs immediate attention.



I'd recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet to take a closer look and guide you further. Let's make sure your furry friend is comfortable and healthy!