Third eyelid showing

C
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Hi everyone,

For a few days now, my cat's third eyelid on her right eye has been half-visible, almost as if it's "stuck".

No foreign bodies, no injuries, no cornea issues, and no tummy troubles (she's an indoor cat and her vaccinations are up to date)... nothing!

The vet prescribed an antibiotic and steroid eye ointment (Fradexam) and we've wormed her at the same time, but there's been no improvement. My girl is doing brilliantly otherwise (thankfully)!

Has anyone else dealt with this before? 😅

Thanks in advance!

Translated from French
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3 answers
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    • C
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    Hi everyone,

    After seeing the eye specialist, it’s definitely Horner’s syndrome with no obvious cause found (perhaps a minor facial injury while playing).

    The symptoms are still present but the third eyelid is much more mobile now, which suggests it will improve over time.

    She is doing wonderfully and it isn’t bothering her at all.

    Thanks for all your replies!

    Translated from French
    ProvetoJuniorConseil
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    Hi, It’s quite difficult to give you a firm answer without a photo to go on. As a vet student, I can suggest a few possibilities based on what you’ve described, along with the points for and against each one. * Horner’s Syndrome is characterised by a protrusion of the third eyelid, a constricted pupil (miosis), a slightly droopy eyelid, and the eye appearing somewhat sunken. What you’re describing could fit this, especially as it’s only affecting one eye and your cat seems otherwise well. * Inflammation (uveitis, keratitis, or conjunctivitis) could be the cause, though it is surprising that applying medicated eye drops (like the Fradexam you mentioned) hasn't reduced the symptoms. * An issue specifically with the third eyelid itself, but this is relatively rare and you would likely see a visible change to the nictitating membrane. These are only hypotheses based on your description, and only a follow-up with your vet will allow you to truly determine the cause. All the best, Quitterie.
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    C
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    Hi there,

    If the third eyelid stays visible on just one side even though your girl is in top form, eating normally, and has no other symptoms, it can be quite baffling.

    I’ve seen cats with a more prominent third eyelid for several days or even weeks without an obvious cause being found straight away. Sometimes it can be down to a slight irritation, inflammation, or a minor neurological issue, but only the vet will be able to tell for sure if it persists.

    The fact that she’s generally healthy and the eye doesn’t look painful or damaged is quite reassuring. Since the Fradexam and worming treatment haven’t made a difference yet, I wouldn’t hesitate to get back in touch with the vet if things don’t change in the next few days—or sooner if you notice any discharge, redness, a loss of appetite, or a change in behaviour.

    I’d be curious to hear an update if you do get an explanation, as these sorts of cases often leave cat owners feeling a bit puzzled.

    Wishing your kitty a speedy recovery!

    Chatzen 🐾

    Translated from French

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