A cat's third eyelid covers the eye. Causes of third eyelid prolapse in cats and treatment methods

Until they discovered that the pussy's eyes were half covered by it. Why this happens and what to do about it, read our article.

This is a light, thin conjunctival fold at the inner corner of the eye. It is also called the nictitating membrane. It performs protective functions: moisturizes the cornea, prevents foreign microparticles or small insects from entering it and removes them if they appear.

Did you know? The camel's "ship of the desert" also has a nictitating membrane. It opens and closes not vertically, but horizontally, and is so thin and transparent that it allows a camel to see through it even in a sandstorm.

Protrusion of the nictitating membrane can be identified by the following signs:

• increased tearfulness;
• frequent involuntary blinking;
• the animal often rubs its eyes and avoids bright light;
• mucous or purulent discharge;
• growth of a white thin film;
• swelling in the inner corners of the eyes.

Important! A prolapsed nictitating membrane is not dangerous per se, but it can be a symptom of other, serious illnesses. That is why, if protrusion is suspected, the cat should be urgently shown to a veterinarian.

If the cause of inflammation of the third eyelid is not established, its treatment will most likely be ineffective. Therefore, for an error-free diagnosis, the veterinarian conducts a comprehensive examination of the animal, which consists of:

• medical history;
• blood tests, general and biochemical;
• polymerase-based diagnostics chain reaction(PCR), etc.

• third eyelid adenoma (benign bean-shaped tumor);
• prolapse (protrusion of the lacrimal gland), which is sometimes confused with protrusion and which is caused by many other pathologies, and therefore requires identification and elimination of the cause;
• cartilage torsion, which may be accompanied by prolapse of the lacrimal gland;
• lymphoid hyperplasia - proliferation of lymphoid tissue of the nictitating membrane.

Did you know? Among domestic animals, the cat is the most open-eyed. The ratio between the size of her eyeballs and the size of her entire body is the largest.

The nictitating membrane itself is not treated; the problem that caused it to fall out is treated. The only thing the owner of the animal can do on his own is to wash his eyes with warm boiled water, fresh tea or decoction pharmaceutical chamomile. The veterinarian should do the rest.

Adenoma is treated surgically by removing the cat's third eyelid.

Prolapse usually occurs in breeds with a flattened muzzle and is treated by surgical reduction of the lacrimal gland followed by treatment of the pathology that caused it.

Cartilage volvulus (or eversion) can also be treated surgically, removal of its broken part, followed by therapy.

Mechanical damage to the third eyelid (membrane rupture), if it does not heal on its own, requires surgical plastic surgery to provide the nictitating membrane normal mobility, the earlier the better.
Horner's syndrome (a neurological disorder) can also cause protrusion of the third eyelid. It can be caused by others various pathologies and is treated by treating the diseases that caused it.

Did you know? Cats see worse in bright light than in dim light.

Now, knowing the causes of pathologies of the third eyelid in cats, you will know how important it is to pay attention to your pets and promptly contact specialists if the slightest symptoms eye diseases. After all, they can be the result of more serious, hidden problems.

The so-called nictitating membrane, which is responsible for irrigating the cornea with tear fluid and clearing it of debris, becomes visible due to various pathologies. Only a veterinarian can correctly determine the etiology of third eyelid prolapse. Independent treatment undertaken by the cat owner can lead to complications of the disease. The owner of the animal can carry out therapeutic measures at home, but only strictly following the prescriptions and recommendations of a specialist.

The timing of seeing a doctor is also urgent: the accuracy of diagnosing the disease is higher in its early stage. It should be added that attempts made by the owner to treat the pet’s eyes before visiting the veterinarian can also negatively affect the establishment of the etiology of the pathological condition.

To understand how difficult it is for a person ignorant of cat diseases to find the correct cause of third eyelid prolapse, you need to list possible options formation of pathology. Here they are:

1. Infections of a bacterial, fungal or viral nature. These include mycoplasmosis, rhinotracheitis, chlamydia and other diseases. One of their symptoms is damage to the cat's eyes.
2. Diseases internal organs, for example, the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. Sometimes the third eyelid falls out after a course of antibiotic therapy.
3. Inflammatory processes in the hearing organs.
4. Disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system.
5. Infection of an animal with fleas or worms.
6. Consequence of injury. In such cases, only one nictitating membrane is damaged.
7. Reaction to foreign body entry. Inflammation occurs when tear fluid can't wash it off.
8. Conjunctivitis caused by food allergy and chemical substances. Cats may be hypersensitive to pollen. Chronic, catarrhal or purulent conjunctivitis is a consequence of diseases of other organs.
9. Benign tumor of the third eyelid (adenoma).
10. Atrophy of the eyeball.
11. Genetic predisposition of animals of certain breeds, for example Persian.

This is a light, thin conjunctival fold at the inner corner of the eye. It is also called the nictitating membrane. It performs protective functions: moisturizes the cornea, prevents foreign microparticles or small insects from entering it and removes them if they appear.

In cats, the nictitating membrane is attached to the inside of the upper and lower eyelids and extends onto the cornea. From the inside it is covered with lymphoid tissue. The film expands and retracts involuntarily: either simultaneously with blinking, or floats when the animal’s head lowers or when the eye is irritated.

The scientific name for this membrane, found in the eyes of several mammals, including cats, is the nictitating membrane, which is also known as the third eyelid or fitting membrane. This is the tissue located around the cornea, conjunctiva and mucous membrane. The third eyelid is usually hidden out of sight in the central (also known as medial - near the nose) part of the eye socket.

Unlike the other two eyelids, which open and close by moving up and down, the third eyelid slides back and forth across the eye from the center outward. This is a moist membrane that may be pigmented (dark), or may have no pigment and therefore be pale or pink (due to blood vessels that pass through it).

The role of the third eyelid is to protect the eyeball from penetration by any foreign object and from various injuries. It is also responsible for the release of fluid, antiseptic properties which are able to fight bacteria and microorganisms that can cause irritation and inflammatory process. If you notice a third eyelid in a cat, either in one eye or in both, this may indicate a malfunction in the body and disease.

Causes of the third eyelid in cats

The causes of the disease largely depend on its type.

Let's look at the types of diseases listed above in more detail:

U healthy pet This nictitating membrane (“third eyelid”) is practically invisible - it is translucent and does not at all interfere with the animal’s watching or sleeping. It is visible for a short time when the cat is half asleep or when he tilts his head. A unique fold appears from the edge of the eye, quickly removes everything foreign in its path, distributes the tear fluid, which it itself partially produces, and disappears again.

It happens that the membrane does not return to its “original” position and becomes larger in size. This should serve as a signal for the pet owner to contact the veterinary service.

ATTENTION! If the third eyelid in cats is not in order, treatment should be prescribed by a doctor!

Protrusion of the nictitating fold is a symptom of such complex internal diseases, How:

• infection caused by bacteria, virus or fungus;
• conjunctivitis;
• reaction to allergens;
• eye injuries;
• internal diseases (including gastrointestinal tract);
• helminthiasis.

What can be dangerous about third eyelid prolapse in cats? Treatment should be aimed at identifying the cause of the disease and eliminating it. Some owners diagnose their pet themselves and give it the medications they deem necessary. As a result, time has passed, the disease has started, and further treatment will be longer and more complex.

Micro-wounds (from a bite or puncture) can cause inflammation of the third eyelid in cats, for example, when fighting with other animals. The cornea is damaged and the eyelid will take a long time to heal, so the cat may need surgery.

If the gastrointestinal tract is not in order, then the consequence is inflammation of the cat’s inner eyelid.

It is necessary to monitor the behavior of the pet. If he vomits, refuses food and diarrhea, then the reason is gastrointestinal disorders. In this case, veterinary assistance is required.

If you notice that your cat's eyes are closed with the third eyelid, treatment may not be necessary in the following cases:

• decreased immunity;
• mild form of cat flu;
• a temporary phenomenon that disappears in 1-2 days.

At similar reasons The mustachioed one should be watched. If he feels quite vigorous, then you just need to strengthen your diet with vitamins and useful microelements, for the flu - regularly remove discharge from the nose and eyes, apply eye drops.

In case of genetic pathology (protrusion of the lacrimal gland occurs in Persian and British breed) cannot be done without the intervention of a veterinary ophthalmologist. Surgically, he will move the gland to the place where it should anatomically be located.

We repeat once again - a veterinarian should and should be consulted. Only he will be able to determine what happened to the tailed patient and, based on the owner’s story about his behavior at home, diet and additional signs of the disease, will prescribe the correct medications.

· Conjunctivitis. This eye infection not only causes the appearance of a third eyelid, but also causes swelling, redness and tearing.

· Dehydration. When a cat is suffering from severe water stress, the appearance of this eye tissue is a sign of a serious health condition that should be treated by a specialist.

· Medicines, especially a tranquilizer called acepromazine, can cause the eyelid to bulge. After stopping the drug, everything returns to normal.

· Bruise. Any head injury (even a seemingly minor one) can affect the eyes.

· Foreign body. Anything that gets into your cat's eyes, be it debris, dust or anything else, will cause this membrane to appear as it acts as a mechanism to prevent further penetration of the foreign body into the eyeball.

· Cancer. Education may influence the appearance of the third eyelid cancer cells.

· Horner's syndrome. A neurological condition called Horner's syndrome can cause a third eyelid to appear. This condition often occurs after ear cleaning because one of the nerves that goes to the eye also passes through the ear. If the eardrum is damaged during cleaning, the nerve may become irritated, resulting in a syndrome that resolves on its own after some time.

· Genetics. Some cat breeds, such as Burmese, are more prone to developing a third eyelid.

Prolapse of the third eyelid is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• tear production increases;
• blepharospasms occur;
• mucus or pus is released;
• appears extensive education in the corners of the eyes.

The causes of protrusion may be the following:

• weakened ligaments that hold the eyelid in a certain position;
• eversion of the cartilaginous base.

Prolapse of the third eyelid in cats. It might start like independent disease, and secondary, arising due to viral or infectious nature. Signs: modification of the third eyelid (inflammation, lacrimation, swelling).

Reasons: possible disruption of the central nervous system; the appearance of neoplasms - which leads to a displacement of the third eyelid; reduction in the size of the eyeball (possible atrophy) - the third eyelid falls into the resulting space; the appearance of a painful sensation in the eye - the animal’s reflex is to cover it with the third eyelid;

Treatment - There are many causes of third eyelid prolapse in cats. To find out the root cause of this disease, make a correct diagnosis, prescribe treatment, you need to immediately show the animal to a specialist.

Treatment of the third eyelid in cats is a responsible process (the life of the animal is at stake) and complex. No pet owner can do it on their own.

Conjunctivitis is a disease of the mucous membrane of a cat's eyelids (inflammation of the conjunctiva). It is she who is responsible for the immunity of the animal’s eyes. Ophthalmologists divide conjunctivitis into: purulent, chronic, catarrhal.

Signs. To determine conjunctivitis in a cat, you need to slightly spread the eyelid with two fingers. There will be noticeable redness of the eye and membrane, lacrimation with purulent discharge, swelling, elevated temperature body, weakness, loss of appetite, photophobia. Sometimes there are small ulcers and even blisters.

The reasons may be foreign particles getting into the eye, an injury from a claw while scratching or received in a fight, an infectious infection, or vitamin deficiency. Also, conjunctivitis can occur against the background of changes occurring due to diseases of other organs and systems in the animal.

Treatment - First of all, you need to examine the cat's eye for the possible presence of foreign particles. Can be treated special ointments, solutions and drops sold in veterinary pharmacies. But in order not to harm your pet, you need to show the animal to a veterinarian.

Inflammation of the cornea of ​​a cat's eyes is an acquired form of inflammation.

TO inflammatory diseases eyes in cats include conjunctivitis, keratitis, keratoconjunctivitis, iritis, inflammation of the nasolacrimal duct (yes, we must not forget that eye diseases in cats also include problems with the duct, orbit and other tissues surrounding the eye), blepharitis, panophthalmitis and others.

Non-inflammatory ones include bruises (and other injuries), a foreign body in the eye, entropion of the eyelid, prolapse of the eyeball, cataracts, glaucoma and others.

The course can be subacute, acute, chronic. And the symptoms of eye disease in cats do not disappear over time, but only fade a little. But this only increases the risk that the animal vision will decrease or other health problems will appear (especially if the cause of the cat’s eye disease is an infection).

Eye diseases in cats are primary and secondary. Primary is when the changes that have occurred in the eyes are the underlying disease. Secondary is when problems with the “mirrors of the soul” have already appeared due to a more serious health problem (for example, an infectious disease), then we can safely say that conjunctivitis is one of the symptoms.

Now let’s briefly go over the main eye diseases in cats.

Below is a classification of eye diseases in cats, symptoms characteristic of each disease, as well as an approximate treatment regimen.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis in cats is perhaps the most common eye disease.

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyelids is called conjunctivitis. There are many types of it:

• Catarrhal;
• Purulent;
• Ulcerative;
• Follicular.

Reasons for the appearance of this inflammation plenty. The most common ones are a foreign body getting into the eye (grains of sand or hair, for example), vitamin deficiency, injuries, infections. In babies (especially kittens), inflammation from the nasal cavity (a seemingly harmless runny nose) quickly spreads to the eyes. Therefore, not only rhinitis is recorded in them, but also inflammation of the nasolacrimal duct and purulent conjunctivitis.

When an animal has conjunctivitis, the mucous membrane of the eyelids turns red, swells, and tears flow. Pus may also appear (but not immediately; first, catarrhal conjunctivitis, which, depending on the cause of its appearance, gradually or extremely quickly “turns” into purulent).

The first step is to determine what caused this inflammation? If it is a foreign body, then you just need to rinse the eye and, to prevent complications, apply tetracycline eye ointment to the lower eyelid a couple of times a day (eye ointment is always 1%!). You can purchase it either at a veterinary pharmacy or at a human pharmacy. This is not a scarce medicine at all and costs a penny. It is best if you always have it in your first aid kit.

Just don’t apply it to your finger and then to your eye. So still more risk that you will get an infection (your hands are not sterile, no matter how much you wash them at home laundry soap). And you don’t need to touch the “nose” of the tube to lower eyelid so as not to introduce pathogenic microorganisms into the tube of ointment.

So, the next time you apply it (even if not for tomorrow), you will introduce pathogens directly to the inflamed area. And instead of treating conjunctivitis in a cat or dog, it will become over-infected.

However, you should not self-medicate as soon as you see tears in your cat or whitish crusts in the inner corner of the eyes. Firstly, this way you can only “drown out” the symptom, while the underlying disease will rage with all its might. Secondly, you may not guess with the dosage or even the drug, which will lead to the transition to catarrhal acute inflammation mucous membrane of the eyelid into chronic, but already purulent or follicular.

Clinical signs of conjunctivitis in a cat or dog will subside, but will not disappear. And this will certainly affect visual acuity. Symptoms of purulent conjunctivitis, in addition to yellow crusts in the morning after sleep or obvious yellow (or even greenish) discharge, are an increase in body temperature. This is understandable.

And the clinical sign of such a pathology will be an increase in temperature. But whether it will increase only in the affected area of ​​the body or in the entire body immediately depends on the state of your pet’s immunity. the weaker it is, the higher the temperature.

Now about follicular conjunctivitis. Everything is much more complicated here. A simple tetracycline ointment or intramuscular antibiotics is not enough. The fact is that near the third eyelid (and it is located in the inner corner, this normally pink “skin”) the lymph nodes become inflamed. they enlarge, swell, and prevent the animal from blinking. It cannot be done without surgical intervention by a veterinarian. After the operation, the doctor will prescribe ointments and injections.

Keratitis

We’ve sorted out the inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyelids, but what is the name for damage to the cornea in cats? Keratitis. It doesn't matter whether it was caused by injury or infection. It would seem, how can one examine some kind of pathology on a transparent cornea, especially if the pet blinks or does not even want to open its eyes because it hurts? But some symptoms will still help you recognize keratitis in a cat.

This is lacrimation. With keratitis, tears flow constantly and very rapidly from the affected eye. large quantities. It’s as if the body is trying to “wash out” the lesion. The mustache will try to keep this eye closed, and if it is very bright in the room (or on the street), it will close its eyes completely. This is called photophobia.

Agree, it’s very difficult not to notice this. You can determine whether an infectious disease is the root cause of keratitis yourself. If they are guilty pathogenic microorganisms(bacteria, viruses), then both eyes are almost always immediately affected. With fungi it is more complicated; they do not immediately move to the second organ of vision. However, in any case, contact veterinary care needed as soon as possible.

Without treatment, in almost 100% of cases, conjunctivitis is added to keratitis (since there are plenty of microorganisms in the air) and the pet already has another disease - keratoconjunctivitis.

That is, in addition to lacrimation and photophobia, there are also Clinical signs, characteristic of inflammation of the eyelid mucosa. Pus begins to come out very quickly.

If the cause of keratitis in a cat was not a wound (a scratch on the cornea can also appear from a foreign body under the eyelid, after a fight), then transparent shell the eyes stop shining, become cloudy, and discharge (often purulent) accumulates in the corner of the eye.

Third eyelid

The nictitating membrane in cats is a unique protective “device” provided by nature. If you are planning to treat a cat’s eye disease – prolapse of the third eyelid, then first find out about the functions of this amazing feature. With the help of the nictitating membrane, the eyes are always protected from various damages and contact with the cornea.

membrane ( inner eyelid) helps maintain the health of the mucous surface of the eyes. In addition to cats, some other mammals and birds are endowed with a similar protective organ.

Eye disease in cats - third eyelid: loss is manifested by the following signs:

• uncontrollable spasms of the orbicularis oculi muscle (twitching and closing of the eyelids);
• increased lacrimation and redness around the eye;
• purulent or mucous discharge;
• massive formation in the corners of the eyes.

This pathology is similar to adenoma. It is very important to distinguish between these eye diseases in cats, the treatment of which, if misdiagnosed, can provoke the development dangerous illness– keratoconjunctivitis, from which the pet cannot be completely cured.

If white film does not disappear - it’s time to contact the veterinarian. A timely detected symptom and immediate treatment will help save your pet’s vision, save it from developing any disease, and maybe even protect it from death.

In a situation where the third eyelid is visible only in one eye, it is recommended to check the cat for the presence of pathologies such as:

• hit foreign object under the nictitating membrane;
• traumatic injuries to the white film, cornea, cartilage or facial nerve;
• symblepharon;
• bacterial inflammation of the membrane.

It should be taken into account that membrane prolapse can occur in both eyes. The reasons for such a violation may be:

• bilateral conjunctivitis;
• fusion of part of the third eyelid with the eyeball;
• helminthiasis

Remember that a treatment regimen for cats’ eyes can only be selected and prescribed by a specialist with a veterinary education. Under no circumstances should you prescribe medications yourself, much less use eye drops and ointments intended for people. The only thing you can do at home is to wash your eyes with warm boiled water or chamomile decoction.

Sometimes a fallen membrane will repair itself within a few hours. If this does not happen, you will have to resort to surgery.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis in cats is simply called inflammation of the eyelid. Blepharitis is also classified into “simple”, ulcerative, scaly, and meibomian. If you don’t notice in time that the eyelid is red, swollen, and prevents the cat from opening its eyes, then you may not have time to start treatment in time.

Without a competent treatment regimen, “simple” blepharitis can easily and quickly turn into ulcerative blepharitis. First, a purulent plaque forms along the line of growth of the cilia, and under the plaque (more precisely, when it begins to fall off), ulcers begin to appear. It’s much more difficult to fight him.

The pet tries to scratch the eye, which can lead to injury, since clawed paws can easily injure the cornea or the same inflamed eyelid. As the purulent plaque and sores spread, blepharitis in a cat leads to loss of eyelashes. There is a high risk that the disease will “spread” to the conjunctiva, to the eye itself, which will lead to the development of a completely different disease - panophthalmitis. And here you will have to act very quickly if you do not want your pet to be left without an eye.

Panophthalmitis

Main signs of the disease

Treatment is the use of antibacterial, antiviral drugs, immunostimulants. If ulcers appear on the cornea, you need to show the animal to the surgeon. This disease in cats leaves scar tissue in the cornea of ​​the eye, leading to permanent clouding and blurred vision.

The life and health of pets, their longevity depends entirely on the love and attention of their owners. The longer you ignore health deviations in animals, the more serious and severe the consequences.

If you have these symptoms, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.

What is a cat's third eyelid? This is when the skin that is in the inner corner covers most of the eye. Subsequently, the organ of vision becomes inflamed, festers, and a white or blue film appears.

If any speck gets into the eyes, the condition of the sick cat may worsen. A veterinarian will be needed at home if a film appears on the kittens' eyes. If this is not done in a timely manner, the cat may simply lose its sight.

In addition to the third eyelid, there are other eye diseases in cats that can be caused by various pathogens. For example, herpes virus, chlamydia. The disease should be detected promptly and the animal treated as quickly as possible.

If cats have tearing, formations on the eyes or a thin white film, then this is a clear sign serious illness. Also no less unpleasant illness The eye in cats is the third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane, which can cover most of the eye. This skin is usually located in cats only from the inner corner of the eyes.

Due to inflammation and irritation of the eyes in cats, suppuration begins when a white or blue film appears on the eyes. This irritation can be greatly worsened when a foreign object enters the eye. If a white film appears on the kitten’s eyes, and the owners forgot to invite a professional veterinarian, then the disease may become more complicated and the cat may simply lose his sight.

Often common cause The appearance of discharge from a cat's eyes is not an eye disease itself, but other diseases that cause the same eye problems.

These can be various infectious diseases, such as herpes virus or chlamydia. It must be taken into account that the disease must be identified in time and treatment must begin as soon as possible, thereby curing the pet’s eyes and prolonging its life.

Signs of the disease may be as follows:

• the cat rubs its eyes with its paw too often;
• the pet avoids bright light;
• the cat blinks too often;
• you noticed that the cat began to squint;

If you notice this strange behavior, then carefully examine the cat’s eyes; if there is an accumulation of pus there, redness and lacrimation, you should immediately run to the doctor, and the sooner this is done, the better. If a cat's eyes are half covered with a film and there is a blue tint, then this is definitely not a cataract, since it causes clouding of the lens.

U old cat the lens often has the same blue tint, but if it is transparent and clear, then the animal is healthy. The third eyelid, partially covering the eyes, is a common phenomenon, which does not mean blindness in the animal. This problem is quite common even in healthy, full-fledged cats.

Symptoms of the disease

The symptomatic manifestation of pathologies depends on the type of inflammation and the reasons that caused it. More often, eyelid prolapse occurs, the mucous membrane looks swollen and hyperemic, the eyes do not open or are closed.

Entropion is also accompanied by “closed”, “glued” eyelids.

Protrusion of the eyelid is often associated with a situation where the eyelid “goes away” (that is, there is inconsistency of symptoms).

All pathologies look like a red spot located at the site of the cornea.

It is difficult to describe the symptomatic manifestation of this disease - you should see it once, at least in a photograph, and then there will definitely be no questions left.

Having looked at several photos of cats suffering from this disease on the Internet, any owner, even a completely inexperienced one, will be able to diagnose and differentiate this disease in their beloved pet.

If you have any doubts about your health and feeling good your pet - we strongly recommend that you contact a veterinary clinic for qualified assistance a doctor or specialist of another class.

Only a professional can accurately understand what processes disrupt normal functioning and depress the animal’s body.

After all diagnostic tests have been carried out, laboratory research and conducting necessary tests, only he will prescribe the right treatment and help you get rid of the disease in a timely and quick manner.

Look at your cat in bright light and examine the eyes. In a healthy pet, they should be clear and bright, and the area around the pupil should be white. Wrap the cat in a towel to prevent it from escaping, carefully thumb Pull back your lower eyelid a little – it should be pink inside.

· lacrimation;

· red or white inner eyelids;

dried pus in the corners of the eyes;

· slightly open eyes;

· cloudy eyes;

· third eyelid.

Panophthalmitis

Unfortunately, the animal will not be able to save its eye. To prevent the infection from spreading to the brain, the diseased organ of vision is completely removed and the eyelids are sutured. To prevent this from happening, do not give up on your pet’s excessive tearing (even if this is a predisposition of the breed), and do not spit on the crusts of pus in the corners of the eyes or on the fur under them.

As soon as something alerts you, or you notice a symptom, immediately contact your veterinarian-ophthalmologist. There is no need to rinse with decoctions, drip antibiotics, or smear everything. This will only “muffle” the clinical signs, making it difficult to make a final diagnosis. And this will affect the development of a treatment regimen. Without it, your pet's recovery is impossible.

Cataract

Cataracts cause the lens of a cat to become cloudy. It is more often registered in older pets, however, it can also develop in young kittens if the cause is an infection. The main symptom you may notice is blurred vision. The animal bumps into objects, walks carefully, slowly, and is poorly oriented in space, especially in new terrain.

Having established the cause of the disease, the veterinarian-ophthalmologist will prescribe drug treatment. Only if it does not help will surgery be prescribed. Self-medication is extremely dangerous. First, the animal may lose vision in that eye completely. Secondly, if the cause was an infection, then panophthalmitis, which was described above, may develop.

Inflammation of the nasolacrimal ducts

Another common eye disease in cats and kittens. It occurs due to the fact that the tubules that “connect the eye and nose” (to explain as simply as possible) become clogged. Many people had no idea about the presence of such tubules. But if you remember crying man, you probably noticed that it was flowing not only from the eyes, but also from the nose.

The symptom is excessive lacrimation. It can be mistaken for a sign of keratitis or conjunctivitis because of this, but no ointment will help. The only way to help an animal is by probing. Yes, it is very painful, but after the procedure the cat immediately feels better. Literally without leaving the veterinarian's office, your pet will feel relief.

More antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent the development of infection. But usually after a week they are canceled, and the cat is re-examined. And if everything is fine, then the mustache is considered recovered.

Wounds of the eyelids

They can be superficial (when there is only a scratch), deep (when several layers of skin are damaged) and through (the eyelid is completely damaged). Cats injure their eyelids much more often than dogs, especially fighters.

If the wound is superficial, then it will need to be washed and treated with an antiseptic (at least with iodine, but only if the wound is outside the eyelid!). if it is deep or through, then only to the veterinarian. It will be necessary to thoroughly treat it, remove all foreign particles from the wound cavity, and also apply sutures. If the wound is through, then you need to make sure that the cornea is not injured.

Turn of the century

Most often, the lower eyelid is rolled up. At the same time, its edge bends inward (towards the cornea), this is not just uncomfortable. This is very painful. Don't forget about the hard cilia that rub against the conjunctiva and cornea. As a result, chronic keratoconjunctivitis can easily develop due to volvulus (volvulus is less common in cats).

Glaucoma

There are three types of glaucoma in cats: congenital, open-angle and closed-angle. With this disease, the animal increases intraocular pressure. A symptom of glaucoma that the owner may notice is a greatly dilated pupil. The vessels cannot withstand the pressure, so they burst. And areas of hemorrhage are visible both on the conjunctiva and on the eye itself. The apple increases in size and becomes very hard (the pressure inside goes off scale).

With open-angle glaucoma, areas of cloudiness are noticeable on the cornea, it is practically insensitive, that is, the reflex weakens. With angle-closure glaucoma, a ring-shaped closed opacification of the cornea is noticeable on the cat’s cornea, as well as a strong branching of burst or dilated blood vessels.

High intraocular pressure in a cat affects not only visual acuity, but also overall well-being. This is very painful, and you can’t do it without the help of a veterinarian (ideally an ophthalmologist). The veterinarian will determine the cause. In some cases, drugs that dilate the pupil help. But if the cause of glaucoma in a cat or dog is associated with lens luxation, then surgical intervention is necessary.

This is only a small part of eye diseases in cats. There are so many types of injuries, burns, inflammatory processes. It’s impossible to talk about everything at once in one article.

Still have questions? You can ask them to our site's in-house veterinarian in the comment box below, who as soon as possible will answer them.

Diagnostics

Unless the exact etiology that causes inflammation of the third eyelid in cats is determined, treatment is unlikely to be effective. Therefore, in many cases, a specialist makes a diagnosis only after comprehensive examination pet, which often includes:

• general and biochemical tests blood;
• ultrasound examination (ultrasound);
• PCR diagnostics (before which they make swabs from the animal’s eye) and the like.

At the beginning of the appointment, the veterinarian asks the cat’s owner about the characteristic symptoms of the disease. The doctor often begins diagnosis based on medical history.

Before going to the clinic, an amateur felinologist can determine characteristic features some pathologies. Eg:

1. Conjunctivitis is manifested by redness and swelling of the eyeball and surrounding tissues, lacrimation and purulent discharge. The cat may develop a fever, general weakness and photophobia, and loss of appetite. The pet owner will see similar symptoms by slightly spreading his eyelid with his fingers.
2. Inflammation of the cornea is accompanied by lacrimation and sometimes clouding. The animal, in pain, rubs its eyes with its paw and shakes its head.

It must be repeated that independent actions It is better for the owner not to undertake this to treat the cat. Similar conditions it may arise not only due to external factors (injury or blockage of the eye), but also internal reasons. It is necessary to seek help from a veterinary clinic as soon as possible.

The examination of the animal is carried out in a certain order, which allows you not to miss details or nuances when differentiating the diagnosis:

• assessment of vision of the damaged organ (preserved or not);
• overall assessment appearance and comparison of symmetrical features (the size and shape of the pupils, the size of the palpebral fissure, the size and changes in the eyelids, the size of the eyeballs);
• assessment of the condition of the eyeball (size, shape, presence of injuries, location in the pupil).

Treatment at home

Treatment of the third eyelid in cats is a complex and responsible process that no animal owner can perform independently.

Treatment at home with folk remedies does not demonstrate any effectiveness and, on the contrary, harms the condition of the animal.

Self-medication is not only ineffective, but also impossible.

Drugs and medicines this disease is often not treated.

If you notice the first symptoms of pathological processes in the area of ​​the eyeball, you should immediately contact a veterinary clinic for qualified professional help.

Treatment of the third eyelid often includes a complex of surgical measures, that is, these diseases are treated surgically.

1. Prolapse (loss of the lacrimal gland)- the gland is surgically returned to its correct position, trying not to damage it and maintain functional activity.
2. Eversion (deformation and displacement) of cartilage, third eyelid rupture can also be treated surgically. A special suture material, special ophthalmic instruments that allow you to obtain surgical approach without damaging the mucous membrane of the eye.
   All operations in the eyeball area must be performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist or other qualified specialist under the supervision of an ophthalmologist.
3. Third eyelid removal- one of the most radical measures disease control, which is used exclusively in cases malignant neoplasms in the area of ​​the eyeball.

Prevention

Prevention of the disease is ineffective. The only available method of prevention that demonstrates an average success rate is trimming the cat's claws so that it does not injure the eyes.

How is inflammation of the third eyelid treated in cats? For infectious pathologies, the specialist prescribes therapy with antifungal and antiviral agents and medications that suppress the development of pathogenic microbes. The course includes painkillers, antipyretics, vitamins and immunostimulants. Sometimes intravenous infusions of pharmacological solutions are practiced.

Treatment of a disease caused by an allergy will be effective once the allergens are identified. The veterinarian will prescribe antihistamines. In some cases, therapy may be necessary to improve your cat's condition. hormonal drugs local and general action.

In most cases, injured eyes can be treated without any difficulties. Doctors first use drops to relieve pain, and then examine the affected areas of the cornea and surrounding tissue. To remove debris or foreign bodies, rinsing is used. Surgical assistance is required only in special cases.

It is not needed to remove an adenoma if the tumor does not increase in size and does not bother the cat. Removing the tumor threatens the animal with such a complication as dry eye syndrome. Most often, for a benign tumor, maintenance therapy is prescribed.

At chronic forms diseases of the organs of vision pet the owner is required to strictly follow the recommendations given by the veterinarian regarding the animal’s diet, its diet, physical activity, and the like.

The nictitating membrane itself is not treated; the problem that caused it to fall out is treated. The only thing the owner of the animal can do on his own is to wash his eyes with warm boiled water, fresh tea or a decoction of chamomile. The veterinarian should do the rest.

Adenoma is treated surgically by removing the cat's third eyelid.

Prolapse usually occurs in breeds with a flattened muzzle and is treated by surgical reduction of the lacrimal gland followed by treatment of the pathology that caused it.

Cartilage torsion (or eversion) is also treated surgically, by removing the broken part, followed by therapy.

Mechanical damage to the third eyelid (film rupture), if it does not heal on its own, requires surgical repair to ensure normal mobility of the nictitating membrane, the sooner the better.

Horner's syndrome (a neurological disorder) can also cause protrusion of the third eyelid. It can be caused by various other pathologies and is treated by treating the diseases that caused it.

Now, knowing the causes of pathologies of the third eyelid in cats, you will know how important it is to pay attention to your pets and promptly contact a specialist at the slightest symptoms of eye disease. After all, they can be the result of more serious, hidden problems.

The blinking fold falls out and covers half the eye. This prolapse is a disease very similar to inflammation of the third eyelid in cats, as the symptoms are similar. The difference in reasons is only in the color of the conjunctiva. With prolapse, it has a clear gray or bluish tint. This is not a pathology, but a signal of a disease, including symptoms of allergy and foreign body contact with the mucosa.

The animal tries to “remove” what is bothering it and rubs its muzzle with its paws. His body reacts to this with secretions; even a tiny piece of garbage can cause inflammation, increased lacrimation and purulent discharge. In order for the speck to come out with pus, it needs to be provided with a “slippery” environment, for which furry pet They give ointments, drops and antibiotics. After the treatment procedures, the nictitating septum will fall into place.

Benign formation Pink colour in the inner corner of the eyeball is often mistaken for inflammation of the third eyelid in a cat, but this phenomenon is an adenoma. It sticks out from under the eyelid and prevents the pet from closing its eyes tightly; its presence threatens that dirt and germs will get onto the always slightly open mucous membrane. The lacrimal gland is surgically put back into place and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory eye drops are prescribed.

Unfortunately, there are often cases when the veterinarian himself suggests removing the nictitating fold in case of adenoma.

ATTENTION! Removal of the lacrimal gland is fraught with disastrous consequences for the animal - a severe form of dry keratoconjunctivitis, ulcerative keratitis, blindness and lifelong purulent discharge.

Treatment of adenoma is possible, although it is labor-intensive and time-consuming, so there is no need to remove the cat's third eyelid.

You should also not “straighten” the fold yourself - this will not give the result that the owners expect, but can lead to complications, double infection, cataract and damage to the cornea.

Because of various reasons which can cause the nictitating membrane to take up more space in the eye than it should, there are several types of treatment, as it all depends on the source of the abnormality.

· If dehydration occurs, you should give your cat plenty of wet food and water to stop the process. It is also recommended that you take your cat to the veterinarian so that he can prescribe maintenance medications and possibly IV drips.

· In case of conjunctivitis, wounds, foreign bodies in the eyes, only a veterinarian can diagnose next step. Eye drops and other medications may be prescribed.

· If the cause of the third eyelid is genetic, the veterinarian will use medical research to determine whether the third eyelid is affecting the cat's vision and causing discomfort.

Prolapse of the nictitating membrane can lead to a variety of diseases.

Among them are:

Adenoma

Adenoma is benign tumor, which occurs next to the bridge of the nose. Its shape is similar to a bean. It has a pink color. The photo demonstrates this perfectly. Over time, the tumor only increases in size.

An adenoma can arise according to the most various reasons, among which the most common are eye damage and infectious diseases.

Due to this pathology, the pet’s eyes cannot be completely closed. And this leads to new injuries. In many situations, the adenoma is accompanied by discharge. On last stage the temperature will rise. The cat may begin to refuse food and become aggressive.

It is important to start treatment on time. If this diagnosis has been made, drug treatment may be prescribed. It will help relieve swelling. Removal of the tumor is only possible through surgery. Treatment should not be accompanied by removal of the membrane and lacrimal gland. Otherwise, “dry eye” syndrome will occur, which will be accompanied by chronic conjunctivitis.

Abnormal cartilage growth

As your pet grows, its eyeball may fracture its nictitating membrane. The cause of this pathology is improper growth of cartilage. It cannot be returned to its normal position. In this case, the membrane is not able to function normally. As a result, a variety of inflammations appear.

Treatment of the disease involves antibacterial therapy. With its help it will be possible to relieve the inflammatory process. After this, treatment is accompanied surgical intervention. This operation should be approached responsibly, as the cornea can be damaged.

Glaucoma

Prevention of third eyelid prolapse in cats

Let's summarize the above:

• if a cat has prolapse of the lacrimal gland on only one side, this indicates a foreign particle has entered;
• both eyes are partially covered by the nictitating membrane - this is inflammation of the third eyelid in cats, the treatment of which depends on identifying the cause (if this is a sign of the disease, it must be confirmed by additional symptoms);
• the nictitating fold is enlarged, the reason is the anatomical pathology of the animal (consultation with a doctor is needed);
• third eyelid in a cat - no treatment is required, as this is a sign of reduced immunity.

1. Treat the cat with drops or ointments intended for humans.
2. Try to “return” the blinking membrane into place on your own.
3. If the veterinarian insists on removing the nictitating membrane, go to another veterinary clinic.

For prevention purposes eye diseases Take care of your pet more often, wash its bedding, and wash the room where it sleeps. Caring for his eyes should be daily. For this there is effective means for rinsing, like BEAPHAR Oftal, which will help prevent irritation of the mucous membranes caused by dirt or dust.

Video on the topic

Simple preventive measures Amateur felinologists can significantly make life easier for their pets and prevent them from developing a third eyelid.

1. Regular treatment for fleas and worms.
2. Keeping it clean sleeping place, bedding and cat litter.
3. Timely vaccinations.
4. Weekly home inspection of the animal.
5. Preventative visits to the veterinarian – once every six months.
6. Proper feeding.

If the cat’s eyes still roll back and a white nictitating membrane comes out, immediately show him to a specialist.

Third eyelid in cats characteristic feature, performing a protective function. With its help, it is possible to protect the eyes from various damage or contact with the cornea. The third eyelid (nictitating membrane) can be seen with the naked eye. It appears as a light, thin skin that is located near the inner corner of the eye. May vary in size.

The membrane plays a significant role in maintaining the health of the ocular surface. In addition to cats, birds, as well as almost all mammals, have a similar organ.

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Organ structure

As numerous photos show, the nictitating membrane on one side is adjacent to the cornea. On the other, to the upper and lower eyelids, to their inner surface.

The inner part of the membrane is covered with lymphoid tissue, which can be mistakenly mistaken for the focus of the inflammatory process of a disease such as, for example, follicular conjunctivitis. When it is removed, the protective function is weakened.

The eyelid maintains its shape thanks to cartilage. It emerges from the medial angle, while promoting the tightest possible fit of the membrane to the cornea. Its base is surrounded by tear-producing tissue. It is attached by soft ligaments to the periosteum of the skull.

Functioning of the membrane

The membrane functions involuntarily. The cat alone will not be able to make the transparent shell move. The eyelid begins to move forward when the head is lowered or during irritation of the cornea. The membrane slides smoothly over the cornea, disinfecting the surface with tear fluid.

Regardless of its functions, the eyelid can have some pathologies that will negatively affect the health of the cat.

Pathologies

There are some breeds of cats that can experience prolapse or protrusion of the nictitating membrane. This is most dangerous in the period from 2 to 9 months of life. Due to constant blinking, an enlarged eyelid can become injured.

Due to its large size, the membrane will come into contact with the cornea, creating discomfort for the pet. The situation will become more complicated if the fluffy starts rubbing his eyes on his own. The video will show you what complications associated with third eyelid prolapse look like.

Signs and causes

Prolapse of the third eyelid is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• tear production increases;
• blepharospasms occur;
• mucus or pus is released;
• a volumetric formation appears in the corners of the eyes.

The causes of protrusion may be the following:

• weakened ligaments that hold the eyelid in a certain position;
• eversion of the cartilaginous base.

It is important to be able to distinguish this disease from an adenoma. In the event of an error, this may occur: dangerous disease, like keratoconjunctivitis. A pet in such a situation can only be cured halfway. It will not be possible to do this completely.

Pet treatment

Prolapse of the nictitating membrane can lead to a variety of diseases.

Adenoma

An adenoma is a benign tumor that occurs near the bridge of the nose. Its shape is similar to a bean. It has a pink color. The photo demonstrates this perfectly. Over time, the tumor only increases in size.

An adenoma can occur for a variety of reasons, the most common of which are eye damage and infectious diseases.

Due to this pathology, the pet’s eyes cannot be completely closed. And this leads to new injuries. In many situations, the adenoma is accompanied by discharge. In the last stage the temperature will rise. The cat may begin to refuse food and become aggressive.

It is important to start treatment on time. If this diagnosis has been made, drug treatment may be prescribed. It will help relieve swelling. Removal of the tumor is only possible through surgery. Treatment should not be accompanied by removal of the membrane and lacrimal gland. Otherwise, “dry eye” syndrome will occur, which will be accompanied by chronic conjunctivitis.

Abnormal cartilage growth

As your pet grows, its eyeball may fracture its nictitating membrane. The cause of this pathology is improper growth of cartilage. It cannot be returned to its normal position. In this case, the membrane is not able to function normally. As a result, a variety of inflammations appear.

Treatment of the disease involves antibacterial therapy. With its help it will be possible to relieve the inflammatory process. After this, treatment is accompanied by surgery. This operation should be approached responsibly, as the cornea can be damaged.

Membrane prolapse

You can often observe a nictitating membrane on the eye that does not disappear. And this is serious reason for concern. Moreover, the loss may not be a pathology, but a symptom of an existing disease. There are several variants of the disease.

If a nictitating membrane is observed in one eye, you need to check your pet for diseases such as:

• foreign bodies that may be under the membrane;
• damage to the cornea, cartilage, third eyelid, facial nerve;
• inflammation of the membrane;
• fusion of a section of membrane with the eyeball.

Pathology can appear in both eyes.

In such a situation, the reasons for loss may be:

• bilateral conjunctivitis or symblepharon;
• infestation with worms.

Use of special compounds

Before asking your veterinarian what treatment should be prescribed, you can use phytomineral supplements, which contain herbs such as:

• ivy-shaped budra;
• calendula;
• plantain;
• cornflower.

Treatment of protrusion

What to do if a protrusion was discovered in a fluffy? Treatment should only be prescribed by a professional veterinarian. You should not use eye drops that are intended for humans.

In some situations, the fallen membrane recovers on its own after a few hours. Otherwise, intervention from a surgeon will be required. At home, treatment may be accompanied by the use of immunomodulatory medications. With their help, you can eliminate a viral infection.

Prevention

To avoid problems with the nictitating membrane, prevention is necessary. Avoid damaging your eyes. This can happen, for example, during a fight with other cats.

Video "Eye diseases"

The video will talk about what eye diseases can occur in cats.

Sorry, there are no surveys available at this time.

Paul Miller (University of Wisconsin-Madison).

Inner eyelid of cats(Tertia palpebra) is a fold of the mucous membrane at the inner corner of the eye. Its other name is third eyelid.

Previously, similar to the appendix or human wisdom teeth, it was assessed by some scientists as a vestigial organ. IN veterinary research At the beginning of the twentieth century, methods were even described for removing this supposedly insignificant organ in order to facilitate the examination of the cat's eye. Today it is already known for sure that the third eyelid of cats plays a significant role in the health of the outer part of the eye. Moreover, the inner eyelid is very important. It is present in almost all mammals, as well as birds. Its absence in some species, such as humans, and our close relatives the primates, is rather a biological curiosity, an exception to the general rule.

The structure of a cat's inner eyelid is quite complex. The nictitating membrane is a fold of the conjunctiva located on the eyeball in the medial corner of the eye. On one side it covers the inside of the eyelids (facing the eye), on the other - the cornea. The scleral (bulbar) surface contains dense areas of lymphoid follicles that are in contact with the surface of the eye and thin layer liquid - tear film. These structures function like the lymph nodes of the eye, protecting it from dirt and dust.

Between the two layers of the conjunctiva there is a T-shaped cartilaginous plate. The "top bar" of the plate reinforces the free edge of the third eyelid. It is curved along the surface of the cornea. The T-cartilage "trunk" is surrounded by lacrimal gland appendages, which produce much of the tear film fluid. Through tiny channels, the tear leaves the gland, and from the third eyelid it exits between the lymphoid follicles to the outside, spreading in a thin film over the entire ocular surface.

Like other animal species, the third eyelid of cats is quite large. It completely covers the cornea, acting in the same way as a windshield cleaner, removing debris while distributing the tear evenly across the cornea.

When a cat is awake, most of the third eyelid is hidden in the eye socket, with only a small part visible in the inner corner of the eye. However, when the cat sleeps or blinks, eye muscles cause the inner eyelid to passively move along the surface of the eye from the inner corner to the outer.

The movement of the cat's third eyelid is regulated in part by the sympathetic nervous system, as well as by the smooth muscles of the innermost eyelid. This fact is widely used in studies of the effects of drugs on the sympathetic nervous system.

The exact functions of the cat's third eyelid are not yet fully understood. Most of Scientists are inclined to believe that it is designed to protect the cornea from injury. Injuries could occur, for example, when the cat moves through tall grass or when capturing prey. In addition, the presence of lacrimal gland appendages allows the production of more tear fluid and, therefore, better rinsing of the eyes than in primates. Tear fluid, passing through the lymphoid follicles covering the third eyelid, is saturated with a number of immunological mediators, including secretory IgA and lactoferrin. Diverging on outer surface, tear fluid provides immune protection against bacteria and fungi that can live even on a healthy eye.

The third eyelid is also thought to help keep the surface of the eye moist, better retaining the tear film on the cornea. Loss of the third eyelid after injury or treatment of neoplasms often results in chronic irritation of the cornea and remaining conjunctiva. In fact, the question that should be asked is not “Why does a cat need a third eyelid?”, but “Why doesn’t a person have a third eyelid?” In fact, in our case it has shrunk to a vestigial fleshy bulge at the inner corner of the eye. Today, the exact reason why a person's third eyelid has disappeared is unknown. This may be because humans do not typically catch prey with their teeth (like cats) or eat vegetation from the ground (like horses). Thus, the third eyelid does not provide any benefit to a person to provide additional eye protection.