Cat Eyelashes Inward: Dangers & Treatments Explained

What is Entropion in Cats?

Entropion in cats, as the name suggests, refers to eyelashes that grow inward towards the cornea. In simpler terms, it's a condition where the eyelashes or hairs around the eyes grow towards the cat's eye. This issue isn't exclusive to pets; some adults and infants can also experience it. If left unchecked, it can lead to more severe problems, including bacterial infections, due to constant irritation.

Entropion can be caused by both congenital and acquired factors. Congenital cases are more common and often linked to genetic factors, particularly in purebred cats such as Persians, shorthaired cats, and those with flat facial features.

Young cats may not show any symptoms, but they often exhibit signs as they mature. Some cats are born with this condition. Another cause is acquired diseases, which can include secondary eye inflammation and orbicularis oculi spasm, among others.

Additionally, as some older cats develop loose skin, a reduction in orbital fat, and weakened eyelid support, inversion of the eyelids may occur.

If a cat's inverted eyelashes continually irritate the conjunctiva and cornea, it can lead to conjunctivitis and keratitis. More importantly, it can cause conjunctival congestion and redness, leading to eye secretions, corneal neovascularization, and sometimes eyelid spasms. If left untreated for a long time, it can result in eye perforation, vision loss, or even blindness.

Symptoms of Entropion in Cats

1. Due to the irritation from the eyelashes, cats may frequently tear, especially around the corners of their eyes. However, there is usually no purulent discharge unless there is a corneal ulcer.

2. Chronic conjunctival congestion: The surface of the cat's eye will show many prominent blood vessels.

3. The cat may frequently blink, and upon examination, the eyelids may also appear red.

4. Corneal ulcer: Continuous irritation from the eyelashes can cause superficial ulcers at the point of contact, and owners might notice the cat's eyes appearing gray or white.

Treatment Methods for Entropion in Cats

If you notice your cat has this condition, it's crucial to seek veterinary care promptly. The vet will determine the treatment plan based on the location and severity of the entropion.

1. For mild cases, simpler methods can be used to control the situation. For instance, during redness in the cat's eyes, using Bepanthen eye drops for eye care and cleaning can help prevent infection. Regular trimming or professional removal of some eyelashes can also reduce irritation to the cornea and minimize the cat's tear production.

2. For cats with mild eyelid inversion, temporary eyelid skin suturing can be used to address the irritation caused by the eyelashes. For more severe cases, surgical correction is recommended.

3. In some cases of acquired eyelid inversion, surgery may not be necessary. First, the cat can be treated with Ciprofloxacin eye drops to eliminate eye inflammation, and then the underlying disease can be treated to cure the condition. Of course, if the owner wishes to alleviate some of the cat's pain, temporary eyelid edge suturing can be considered.

When cats have inverted eyelashes, they may become more irritable due to constant irritation from the eyelashes. Owners must be patient and take their cats for treatment promptly. If you have any other questions about feline eye diseases, feel free to consult an online veterinary doctor.