The third eyelid of a cat: causes, symptoms and treatment at home

Outward appearance of the third century (or blinkingmembrane) immediately becomes noticeable to the naked eye. It is whitish or light blue thin skin, located at the inner corner of the eye, of various sizes.

The third eyelid of a cat is important for maintaining the health of the entire eye surface. In addition to cats, the presence of such a unique organ can boast almost all types of mammals and birds.

Third eyelid in cats: causes and symptoms of the disease

The third (internal) eyelid is a conjunctivefold, covering the inner surface of the usual eyelids from the side of the eye, and on the other hand - the surface of the cornea. Its principle of operation resembles the operation of the windshield wiper. The eyelid effectively removes the garbage in the eye and promotes a uniform distribution of tears over the surface of the cornea, protecting it from possible injuries. Tears help to create an immunological defense against bacteria and fungus.

Some varieties of cats are Persians, Britons andetc. - are inclined to experience loss or protrusion (prolapse) of the third century. Especially dangerous is the period from the second to the ninth month of life. Due to the movements of the eyelids due to constant blinking, the enlarged eyelid will get injured and swell. In addition, because of its size, the eyelid will constantly touch the cornea, creating some inconvenience to the cats. Independently trying to rub the damaged eye, the animal will only complicate the situation.

As for the symptoms of the loss of the third century, they can include:

• 
  tear of the eye;


• 
  the appearance of blepharospasm;


• 
  presence of mucus or pus accumulation in the damaged eye;


• 
  voluminous conspicuous formation in the corner of the injured eye ("cherry eye" syndrome).

Frequent causes of protrusion formation are:

• 
  loosening of ligaments that hold the eyelid in the appropriate position;


• 
  turn of the cartilaginous base of the eyelid.

It is necessary to properly distinguish the protrusion fromadenomas (neoplasms). Removing the eyelid, unlike the removal of adenoma, will lead to the development of such a dangerous disease as keratoconjunctivitis, which can not be completely cured.

With the loss of the third century in cats, the following types of diseases can be associated:

• 
  various types of conjunctivitis;


• 
  infections, viruses, fungal infections;


• 
  getting irritants in the eye or injuries;


• 
  manifestation of allergy;


• 
  diseases of internal organs (GIT);


• 
  presence of external or internal parasites;

Timely detection of the disease and the beginning of professional treatment help save the cat the quality of sight and even life.

Third eyelid in cats: treatment

Before you learn from a veterinarian how to treat a protrusion, you can safely apply phytomineral types of fertilizing with such herbs in the composition:

• 
  thymus thymus;


• 
  cornflower;


• 
  plantain;


• 
  calendula.

What can I do if I find a protrusion in my cat? Immediately contact the clinic for help. It is not recommended to use such medications for treatment, like eye drops, intended for humans.

In some cases, the third eyelid that fell outseveral hours is restored. If this does not happen, the surgeon's intervention will be required. Home treatment may include the use of medications such as immunomodulating - phosphoprenyl or cycloferon. They will help to eliminate the viral infection.

Read also "How to treat the third eyelid in a cat".