Cat's eyes can be really fascinating for those who stop to look at them, not only because of the particular combinations of colors, but also because of how curious the behavior of its pupil can be, which changes from size according to the amount of light in the environment.
There is a membrane in the cat's eye called the third eyelid. It is possible that you have never seen it, as it indicates he alth problems. Therefore, if you have begun to notice it, it is important that you are informed about the third eyelid in cats, its causes and treatment, which is why our site brings you this Article. This is a symptom that something is wrong with your cat's he alth, and should not be ignored for any reason.
What is the third eyelid in cats?
The scientific name of this membrane found in the eyes of various mammals, including felines, is Tertia palpebra and may be called third eyelid or nictitating membrane. It is a tissue located around the cornea, conjunctiva and mucous membrane. Although it is not common to see it, it is possible that when your cat is semi-asleep you notice some sections between his eye and the external eyelids.
The job of the third eyelid consists of protecting the eyeballs from any foreign object and trauma that may occur as a result of a blow. In addition, it is responsible for releasing a liquid whose antiseptic properties are able to combat the presence of bacteria and microorganisms that could cause diseases.
If you notice that your cat's third eyelid is visible, either in one or both eyeballs, it indicates that he has some discomfort, pain or disease. Some investigations indicate that the appearance of this membrane is related to intestinal parasites and digestive problems, while others affirm that if this membrane is observed, the problem is clearly related to the eye. So that you can have all the information, we show you the causes that can cause this tissue to appear in your cat's eye.
In this other article, we explain more about eye diseases in cats.
Causes of the third eyelid in cats
If you notice that your cat's nictitating membrane is visible in one or both eyes, here are some of the factors that may be causing it:
- Conjunctivitis: This eye infection not only causes the appearance of the third eyelid, but also swelling, tearing and redness.
- Dehydration: When the lack of water is extreme, the appearance of this eye tissue indicates a serious he alth condition that must be addressed by a specialist.
- Wounds: if your cat has suffered a blow or trauma to the face, it is possible that it has affected its eyes. Take him to the vet immediately.
- Foreign body: any object, garbage, dust, among other elements that may have penetrated the feline's eye will cause this membrane to appear, as a way to prevent it from getting further embedded in the eyeball.
- Cancer: This small organ may be affected by the growth of cancer cells.
- Haw Syndrome: This name is given to the appearance of the third eyelid when it is related to the fact that the feline is suffering or you just had an intestinal problem, be it severe diarrhea or the presence of parasites.
- Genetics: Some cat breeds, such as the Burmese, may be prone to this membrane bursting into the eye, causing discomfort.
In addition, if your cat's third eyelid is visible, it is also very likely that his eyes will begin to water, and that he will try to touch them with his paws due to the discomfort that this membrane causes him when he is out of place.
Treatment of the third eyelid in cats
Due to the multiple causes that can cause the cat's nictitating membrane to cover more space than it should in the eye, the treatments are diverse, as they will depend on what is causing this anomaly.
When it comes to dehydration, it is recommended to give the cat plenty of wet food and water to stop the process, and visit the vet, because the lack of water has been too long for the problem to be solved at home.
In case of conjunctivitis in cats, wounds, foreign bodies in the eye and cancer, only the doctor's diagnosis can determine what the next step is. eye drops and other medications may be prescribed for the first 3 problems, depending on severity, and for cancer amay be recommendedSurgical intervention and radiotherapy , only the specialist can decide which is the best option to preserve the feline's quality of life and he alth.
Haw syndrome should go away on its own, when the intestinal and digestive problems that have caused the membrane to show disappear.
When the cause is genetic, the veterinarian will determine through medical studies if the membrane is affecting the cat's vision and causing discomfort. If so, surgery may also be used, not to remove it but to relocate it where it belongs.
