Third eyelid mild exposure in cats

Third eyelid exposure in cats has no specific cause, and may be caused by genetic factors, breeding and management factors, or internal parasitic diseases. The third eyelid, also known as the nictitating membrane, covers the conjunctiva to protect the cornea and clear foreign objects, and prevents the eye from becoming excessively dry. Generally, the best solution for cats with third eyelid exposure is to undergo a third eyelid surgery at a pet hospital.

Firstly, there are many causes of mild third eyelid exposure in cats, which may be caused by eye stimulation, viral-induced dysfunction that causes the eye muscle to retract into the eye socket, or shrinkage of the fatty tissue behind the retina, resulting in the eyeball moving backward and pressing the third eyelid forward. In addition, poisoning or autonomic neuropathy, and multiple ganglion萎缩 may also be the cause. Neck injury or excessive pressure may also cause nerve paralysis of the third eyelid movement in cats, leading to symptoms of third eyelid exposure.

Secondly, improper daily diet and feeding can also cause third eyelid exposure in cats, such as always feeding high-salt, high-fat, and high-protein food. If the third eyelid exposure is caused by internal parasites, it is necessary to give cats deworming medicine in time. Generally, cats at the age of three months can be dewormed, and common deworming drugs include Baichongqing and Qiuqingqing.

Finally, there are two surgical procedures to solve the mild third eyelid exposure in cats:

Third eyelid resection: This procedure is simple, takes a short time, and is relatively inexpensive. However, since the third eyelid is involved in 30% of tear secretion, this surgery can cause dry eye syndrome as a sequelae, and long-term eye drops are needed.
Third eyelid embedding: This procedure is relatively complex and expensive, but it preserves the eyelid and does not damage the lacrimal gland. As long as postoperative care is adequate, the prognosis is good.