Third Eyelid Inflammation in Cats

The initial symptoms of third eyelid inflammation in cats are mild redness and lacrimation. Due to discomfort, some cats may scratch the affected eye with their front paws. After one or two days, a bean-sized to pea-sized reddish protrusion can be seen at the corner of the eye, gradually becoming larger and smooth, wet, and tough. The protruding gland can spontaneously retract into the eyelid. If the gland cannot retract and covers part of the cornea, affecting vision, the color will change from initial pink to purplish red.

Causes of Third Eyelid Inflammation

The cause of third eyelid inflammation in cats is usually due to congenital developmental abnormalities, leading to hypertrophy of the third eyelid gland and covering the inner corner of the eye, causing a noticeable appearance. It may also be due to the outward turning of the T-shaped cartilage in the third eyelid area, resulting in obvious hypertrophy of the third eyelid and subsequent inflammation.

How Long Does It Take for the Third Eyelid to Heal?

Usually, timely treatment is required for cat third eyelid inflammation. For mild symptoms, drop some pet eye drops to alleviate eye discomfort, and concurrently use lysine to suppress the virus in the cat's body. After four to five days, there will be an improvement. If there is no improvement after a few days, surgical removal is necessary at a pet hospital. Be sure to prevent the cat from scratching the area after surgery, and the cat will recover within a week.

How to Treat Third Eyelid Inflammation

The treatment plan for cat third eyelid adenitis usually involves surgical intervention. It is recommended that specialized pet doctors diagnose the protruding third eyelid gland, checking for the presence of T-shaped cartilage prolapse. If T-shaped cartilage prolapse is present, partial resection of the T-shaped cartilage is necessary to prevent the gland from being affected again.