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Have you ever noticed a thin, pale membrane sliding across your cat’s eye and wondered what it is or if it’s normal? This mysterious feature, known as the third eyelid, often raises questions for cat parents. Understanding what it does and when to be concerned is key to keeping your feline friend healthy and happy.
⚠️ What to Watch For
The third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane, is a fascinating part of your cat’s anatomy. Normally, this translucent structure stays tucked away in the inner corner of the eye, near the nose. However, if it becomes visible, it’s often a sign of something going on with your cat’s health.
Here are some common scenarios where you might notice your cat’s third eyelid:
- It partially covers the eye while your cat is resting or sleeping.
- It becomes visible in one or both eyes while your cat is awake.
- It appears red, inflamed, or swollen.
- Your cat is pawing at their eye or showing other signs of discomfort.
While a visible third eyelid isn’t always a cause for alarm, it’s worth paying attention to any accompanying symptoms, like changes in behavior, appetite, or activity levels.
🔍 Possible Causes
A visible third eyelid can indicate a variety of underlying issues, ranging from minor to serious. Here are some common causes:
- Eye irritation: Dust, debris, or a scratch on the surface of the eye can trigger the third eyelid to come forward as a protective mechanism.
- Conjunctivitis: Infections or inflammation of the conjunctiva (the tissue surrounding the eye) can cause redness, swelling, and third eyelid exposure.
- Dehydration or illness: Cats who are unwell or dehydrated may show their third eyelids more prominently.
- Horner’s syndrome: This neurological condition affects the nerves controlling the eyes and can lead to a drooping third eyelid, among other signs.
- Cherry eye: Though more common in dogs, this condition occurs when the gland in the third eyelid becomes prolapsed, creating a visible bulge.
- Trauma: Any injury to the eye area, whether from a fight or accident, can cause the third eyelid to become visible as the eye heals.
Some cases may also be linked to systemic illnesses, such as gastrointestinal issues or respiratory infections. If the third eyelid is visible for more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s time to take action.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
When you notice your cat’s third eyelid, there are a few things you can do right away to assess and support their health:
- Check for visible irritants: Gently examine your cat’s eye to see if there’s dust, fur, or debris causing irritation. Avoid poking or prodding the eye directly.
- Observe for other symptoms: Look for additional signs, such as squinting, redness, discharge, or changes in appetite and behavior. These can give clues about the underlying issue.
- Keep the area clean: If there’s mild discharge, you can wipe it away gently with a clean, damp cloth or cotton pad. Use warm water—never harsh solutions.
However, avoid trying to treat the issue yourself with over-the-counter drops or medications unless specifically directed by a vet. Some products can worsen the problem or delay proper treatment.
💡 When to Call a Vet
While some cases of third eyelid exposure resolve on their own, others require prompt veterinary attention. Here’s when to call your vet:
- The third eyelid is visible for more than 24–48 hours.
- There is redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye.
- Your cat is rubbing their eye or showing signs of pain.
- Both third eyelids are visible at the same time, which can indicate systemic illness.
- There’s a history of trauma or recent illness.
A vet will perform a thorough eye exam and may use diagnostic tests like fluorescein staining, which helps detect scratches or ulcers on the cornea. In some cases, systemic treatments like antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications may be needed to address the root cause.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal to see a cat’s third eyelid while they’re sleeping?
A: Yes, it’s normal for the third eyelid to partially cover your cat’s eye when they’re sleeping or very relaxed. However, it should retract fully when they’re awake and alert.
Q: Can stress cause a cat’s third eyelid to show?
A: Stress or illness can sometimes cause the third eyelid to become more visible. If you suspect stress is the trigger, try to identify and minimize potential stressors in your cat’s environment.
Q: Should I try to push my cat’s third eyelid back into place?
A: No, never attempt to manipulate your cat’s third eyelid. If it’s visible, it’s usually a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed by a vet.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
