Did you know that each cat has more than two eyelids? In addition to the upper and lower eyelids, there is a third eyelid that you usually don't see. In some cases, the prominent third eyelid is actually a sign of disease or injury. What is the third eyelid of a cat?
cats and many other mammals have a third eyelid, called the instant membrane. The membrane is located in the corner of each eye, facing the center of the face. The third eyelid is usually retracted and invisible. Some conditions may cause the third eyelid to protrude and partially cover the eyeball.
Causes of third eyelid appearance in cats
It is not common to see cats' third eyelid. In many cases, the appearance of the third eyelid indicates a problem. There are several reasons why cats have a protruding third eyelid. Some are considered normal, while others have problems. Generally speaking, if you find that your cat's third eyelid has protruded for more than a few hours, you should contact your veterinarian.
1, sleepy or relaxed state
When the cat is very relaxed or tired, part of the third eyelid will show that it is normal. You may notice that the third eyelid has risen when your cat is sleeping or just awake. Once the cat wakes up and remains alert, the third eyelid should retract. If the third eyelid stays longer than
2, sedation or anesthesia
If your cat is undergoing anesthesia or sedation during a medical procedure, the third eyelid will appear and partially cover the eyes due to extreme relaxation of the body. The effect may last for several hours after waking up, but it should fade away. This is considered normal and not a problem unless the third eyelid remains upward on the day of the surgery.
3. Conjunctivitis
The conjunctiva is a thin and transparent mucosa arranged on the inner side of the eyelid and covers the front of the eye. Sometimes called "red eye disease", conjunctivitis simply means inflammation of the conjunctiva. It may be caused by an infection, allergies, injuries, or eye irritants. It is not uncommon for conjunctivitis to cause inflammation and protrusion of the third eyelid. Cats with conjunctivitis are usually treated with medication eye drops or ointments containing antibiotics and/or steroids.
4. Corneal ulcer
The cornea is transparent and covers the front of the eye, including the iris and pupils. Corneal ulcers are wounds in the cornea that can cause pain and inflammation in the eyes and may cause the third eyelid to appear. Corneal ulcers are usually caused by eye injuries, such as abrasion, scratch or stab wound. Irritating or abrasive substances can also cause corneal ulcers. Corneal ulcers quickly become very serious and require veterinary treatment. Cats with corneal ulcers usually require one or more ophthalmic medications, and may also require oral medications.
5, Uveitis
The uveitis The uveitis is the middle part of the eye and contains many blood vessels. The inflammation of the uveitis is called uveitis. It often makes the eyes look red and sometimes painful. The third eyelid may or may not be affected.
6. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a painful eye disease that can cause increased intraocular pressure. This is because the aquaculture (liquid in the front of the eyes) cannot be discharged normally. Excessive stress can lead to damage to the optic nerve and can lead to blindness. Third eyelid inflammation may sometimes be accompanied by glaucoma.
7. The third eyelid of the cherry eye contains a gland that swells and looks like a round protrusion at the corner of the inner eye. This is called instant membrane prolapse or cherry eyes. It is relatively uncommon in most cats, but is very common in Burmese cats. Surgery is a treatment for cherry eyes.
8. Eye Growth, tumors, lumps and cysts inside and around the eye can cause inflammation and protrusion of the third eyelid. If you notice abnormal growth or swelling inside or around the cat's eyes, contact your veterinarian to avoid causing more trouble.
9. Horner syndrome
Horner syndrome is a neurological disease caused by neurological dysfunction. It affects the eyes and facial muscles, making the eyes appear asymmetrical. The third eyelid is usually very prominent in one eye. The eyelids droop, and the eyes themselves look "inclined". Horner syndrome may be caused by trauma or tumor, but sometimes the cause cannot be determined. This situation may be resolved on its own.