Cat Third Eyelid Showing No Other Symptoms: Causes & Care

A cat’s third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane or haw, is a thin layer of tissue that sweeps across the eye from the inner corner. It’s normal for a cat’s third eyelid to be visible when they’re sleeping or very relaxed. However, if the third eyelid is showing frequently or continuously, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition.

There are several potential causes of a third eyelid showing in cats, including eye irritation, infection, or trauma. In some cases, it may be a sign of a more serious condition such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). If your cat’s third eyelid is showing, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.

With prompt veterinary care, most cats with a third eyelid showing will make a full recovery. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary to manage the underlying condition. With proper care, your cat should be back to their normal self in no time.

What Exactly Is the Third Eyelid in Cats?

The third eyelid is also called the nictitating membrane or haw. It’s a thin layer of tissue that’s located in the inner corner of a cat’s eye. The third eyelid is used to protect the eye and keep it moist. It’s normal for a cat’s third eyelid to be visible when they’re sleeping or very relaxed.

In some cases, the third eyelid may be partially or fully visible when a cat is awake. This can happen if the third eyelid is inflamed or if there’s an underlying health condition. If you notice that your cat’s third eyelid is showing, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.

Role of Third Eyelid in Cats

The third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, is a triangular-shaped piece of tissue that lies in the inside corner of a cat’s eye. This membrane is transparent and contains a tiny gland that produces tears.

The third eyelid also has a small muscle that allows it to sweep across the surface of the eye, distributing tears and keeping the eye lubricated. In addition, the third eyelid helps to protect the eye from foreign bodies and debris.

When an irritant or allergen gets in the eye, the third eyelid will often reflexively sweep across the surface of the eye in an effort to remove the problem.

Cats also sleep with their eyes closed, but their third eyelids remain partially open. This allows them to keep watch for predators even while they are resting.

The third eyelid is an important part of a cat’s anatomy, but it can also be a sign of illness. If a cat’s third eyelid is showing more than usual, it can be a sign of pain, infection, or allergy.

Cat Third Eyelid Showing No Other Symptoms: Should You Worry?

Most cats have a third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, that is normally not visible. This membrane helps to protect the eye and keep it lubricated. Sometimes, however, the third eyelid may become partially or fully visible.

In most cases, this is not a cause for concern. The third eyelid may be more noticeable when a cat is tired, stressed, or ill. If your cat’s third eyelid is showing and there are no other signs of illness, there is likely no cause for alarm.

However, if the third eyelid appears red or swollen, or if your cat is also displaying other symptoms, such as excessive tearing or discharge from the eye, it is important to see a veterinarian. These could be signs of a more serious condition, such as an infection or injury.

Why Your Cat’s Third Eyelid Showing? 15 Possible Reasons

Now that you know a little bit more about the third eyelid, let’s take a look at some of the potential causes.

1. Foreign Bodies in the Eye

One of the most common reasons for a third eyelid to show is due to foreign bodies in the eye. If there’s something in your cat’s eye, such as dust, dirt, or grass, their body may produce more tears to flush it out. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

From my experience, foreign bodies are one of the most common causes of a third eyelid showing. In most cases, the problem can be resolved with a simple eye flush. However, if your cat’s third eyelid is showing frequently, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.

2. Allergies

Allergies are another common reason for a third eyelid to show. If your cat is allergic to something in their environment, such as pollen or dust, they may have watery eyes. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show. Allergies can also cause inflammation of the eye, which can lead to the third eyelid showing.

If you think your cat may be allergic to something, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cats with allergies will see a significant improvement.

3. Eye Irritation

Eye irritation is another common cause of a third eyelid showing. If your cat’s eyes are irritated, they may produce more tears to flush out the irritant. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

There are many potential sources of eye irritation, including dust, pollen, smoke, and chemicals. If you suspect that your cat’s eyes are irritated, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.

4. Infection

Infections are another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. If your cat has an infection in their eye, they may produce more tears to flush out the bacteria or virus. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Eye infections are relatively common in cats and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. If you think your cat may have an infection, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With prompt treatment, most eye infections will resolve without any lasting effects.

5. Trauma

Trauma is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. If your cat sustains an injury to their eye, it may cause inflammation and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Eye injuries are relatively common in cats and can occur due to fighting, playing, or accidents. If you think your cat may have sustained an injury, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most eye injuries will heal without any lasting effects.

6. Tumors

Tumors are another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. If your cat has a tumor in their eye, it may cause inflammation and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Eye tumors are relatively rare in cats but can be benign or malignant. If you think your cat may have a tumor, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most tumors will be resolved without any lasting effects.

7. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Glaucoma is a condition that causes increased pressure in the eye, which can lead to inflammation and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Glaucoma is relatively rare in cats but can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have glaucoma, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of glaucoma can be controlled.

8. Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies are another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. If your cat is not getting enough of certain nutrients, it can lead to problems with their vision and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

The most common nutritional deficiency that can cause a third eyelid to show is vitamin A deficiency. If you think your cat may be deficient in vitamin A, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of vitamin A deficiency can be resolved.

9. Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Kidney disease can cause a build-up of toxins in the body, which can lead to problems with vision and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Kidney disease is relatively common in cats and can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have kidney disease, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of kidney disease can be controlled.

10. Diabetes

Diabetes is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Diabetes can cause a build-up of sugar in the blood, which can lead to problems with vision and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Diabetes is relatively common in cats and can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have diabetes, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of diabetes can be controlled.

11. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Hyperthyroidism can cause a build-up of hormones in the body, which can lead to problems with vision and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Hyperthyroidism is relatively common in cats and can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have hyperthyroidism, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of hyperthyroidism can be controlled.

12. Cataracts

Cataracts are another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Cataracts are a condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy, which can lead to vision problems and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Cataracts are relatively common in cats and can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have cataracts, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of cataracts can be resolved.

13. Infections

Infections are another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Infections can cause inflammation and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

There are many different types of infections that can affect the eye, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. If you think your cat may have an infection, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of eye infections can be resolved.

14. Horner’s Syndrome

Horner’s syndrome is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. Horner’s syndrome is a condition that affects the nerves and muscles around the eye, which can lead to problems with vision and increased tear production. The extra tears can cause the third eyelid to show.

Horner’s syndrome is relatively rare but can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have Horner’s syndrome, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of Horner’s syndrome can be resolved.

15. Corneal Ulcer

A corneal ulcer is another possible cause of a third eyelid showing. A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the surface of the eye, which can lead to increased tear production and the third eyelid showing.

Corneal ulcers are relatively common in cats and can be a serious condition if left untreated. If you think your cat may have a corneal ulcer, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, most cases of corneal ulcer can be resolved.

What If Third Eyelid Showing in One Eye Only?

While a third eyelid showing in just one eye can be disconcerting to witness, it isn’t necessarily cause for alarm. Also called the nictitating membrane or haw, the third eyelid is a thin, pinkish-red fold of tissue that resides in the inside corner (medial canthus) of a cat’s eye.

This membrane pops up when your cat is sick, injured, or otherwise not feeling well and its purpose is to protect the eye. Given how efficient the third eyelid is at doing its job, you might see it more often in indoor cats who don’t have access to the outdoors and are therefore at greater risk of sustaining injuries to their eyes.

If your cat’s third eyelid is only showing in one eye and she otherwise appears healthy and happy, there’s no need for concern. Just keep an eye on her for any other changes in her appearance or behavior that might indicate she isn’t feeling well.

However, if her third eyelid is showing in both eyes or if it appears red, swollen, or painful, have her examined by your veterinarian as soon as possible since these could be signs of a serious health problem.

Third eyelid prolapse, for example, occurs when the haw extends so far out of the eye that it becomes visible on the surface. This can happen when your cat has an infection or inflammation of the eye (conjunctivitis) or when she’s experiencing severe dehydration.

Things to Do When Your Cat’s Third Eyelid Is Showing

If you notice that your kitty’s third eyelid is showing, it’s important to have her checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

While a minor case of the third eyelid showing can sometimes be normal, it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

If you found its already passing day two and the third eyelid is still showing, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like discharge from the eye, redness, swelling, or pain, then your cat needs to be seen by a vet.

What to Expect at The Vet’s Office?

Here’s what you can expect when you take your cat to the vet for a third eyelid showing:

1. Medical History

Your veterinarian will ask you about your cat’s medical history and whether she’s been experiencing any other symptoms. Be sure to mention if the third eyelid is showing in just one eye or both eyes, how long it’s been going on, and if you’ve noticed any other changes in her appearance or behavior.

2. Physical Examination

Your vet will then give your cat a physical examination, paying close attention to her eyes. He or she will check for any signs of infection, inflammation, or other problems.

3. Diagnostic Testing

Depending on the results of the physical examination, your vet may recommend one or more diagnostic tests. These could include blood tests, urinalysis, x-rays, or an ultrasound.

4. Treatment

Once the underlying cause of the third eyelid showing is determined, your vet will develop a treatment plan accordingly. This may involve medication, dietary changes, surgery, or a combination of all three.

5. Follow-Up Care

After your cat has been treated for the third eyelid showing, it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions for at-home care. This may include giving your cat medication, applying eye ointment, or cleaning her eyes on a regular basis.

In most cases, the third eyelid will return to its normal position once the underlying condition has been resolved. However, in some cases, the third eyelid may remain prolapsed and require surgery to correct.

What Treatment You Can Expect?

The treatment for a cat with a third eyelid showing will vary depending on the underlying cause.

For example, if the condition is due to an infection or inflammation of the eye, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication. If it’s due to dehydration, your vet will recommend giving your cat extra fluids either by mouth or through an IV.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a prolapsed third eyelid. This is typically only done if the condition is severe and other treatment methods have been unsuccessful.

Home Treatment for a Cat with a Third Eyelid Showing?

If your cat has a third eyelid showing, it’s important to take her to the vet for an examination as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do at home to help her feel more comfortable:

• Apply a warm compress to her eye several times a day to help reduce inflammation.
• Clean her eye with a sterile saline solution or eyewash to remove any discharge.
• Give her extra fluids to drink to prevent dehydration.
• Keep her stress levels low by providing her with a quiet place to rest and minimizing changes in her environment.
• Watch for any other changes in her appearance or behavior and report them to your vet.

How Long Does It Take for a Cat’s Third Eyelid to Go Away?

This answer depends on the underlying cause of the third eyelid showing. In most cases, the third eyelid will return to its normal position once the underlying condition has been resolved. However, in some cases, the third eyelid may remain prolapsed and require surgery to correct.

In general, you can expect the third eyelid to go away within a few days to a week with treatment. However, if your cat has a more severe condition that requires surgery, it may take several weeks or longer for the third eyelid to return to its normal position.

How to Prevent the Third Eyelid Showing?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent the third eyelid from showing:

1. Keep Your Cat’s Eyes Clean

Yes, cats are good at keeping their own eyes clean, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pitch in. Regularly wipe your cat’s eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Don’t Skip Vet Appointments

Make sure to take your cat for regular wellness check-ups so that any problems can be caught and treated early on.

3. Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Make sure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water and offer her wet food if she’s not a fan of drinking from a bowl.

4. Watch for Changes in Your Cat’s Eyes

Be on the lookout for any changes in your cat’s eyes, such as redness, discharge, or swelling. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, take her to the vet right away.

The Summary

You might be concerned if you notice your cat’s third eyelid is showing. However, in most cases, this is nothing to worry about and will resolve on its own.

If the third eyelid continues to show or is accompanied by other symptoms, take your cat to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, the third eyelid should go away within a few days to a week.