Why Do Cats Roll Over and Show Their White Eyes While S

Section 1: The Role of the Third Eyelid

The third eyelid, often transparent or semitransparent, serves a crucial protective function. During certain actions, animals will retract this eyelid to shield their eyes from external forces. Since cats cannot rub their eyes like humans, the third eyelid comes into play when there's debris on the cornea. It secretes tears, evenly coating the eye, and aids in cleaning the eyes.

Cats typically blink every 30 seconds, but during times of high stress or anxiety, they might blink only once every five minutes. If a cat goes for an extended period without blinking, its eyes can become dry. In such cases, the third eyelid begins to secrete tears to replenish moisture.

When a cat blinks or closes its eyes, the nictitating membrane covers the entire eye, clearing away any dirt and quickly secreting oils to prevent moisture evaporation, thereby nourishing the eyes.

Section 2: Situations Involving the Third Eyelid

In normal circumstances, the third eyelid remains hidden beneath the eye, only emerging during sleep. Therefore, when you observe your feline friend rolling over with a white eye during slumber, rest assured that it's not a sign of aloofness or disdain towards you. It's simply a cat that's sleeping too deeply.

It's important to note that if you notice your cat frequently protruding its third eyelid or having difficulty retracting it, this could indicate an eye issue. In such cases, it's crucial to take your cat to a veterinarian promptly.

For more insights into feline sleep, consider reading "What Causes a Cat to Twitch While Sleeping?"