Entropion in Cats

Entropion is a condition in which a cat's eyelids turn inward. It is much more common in dogs, but according to VetInfo.com, purebred cats such as the Persian and Burmese are more likely to develop the condition than other breeds. While not life-threatening, entropion can cause severe irritation and interfere with proper vision.

  1. Cause

    • Entropion can occur due to a genetic defect and appear at birth or shortly thereafter. It can also appear later in life due to changes in the eye or as a result of underlying health conditions. Corneal ulcers are the main culprit in the development of entropion in cats, according to VetInfo.com. These ulcers cause intense pain and can result in muscle spasms in the eyelid, turning it inward.

    Symptoms

    • The upper and lower eyelids can be affected by entropion, but it is more common in the lower lids. Symptoms of entropion include various states of eye irritation, including tearing, squinting and discharge. The lids themselves may appear swollen and red, and the cat may experience sensitivity to light.

    Diagnosis

    • Your veterinarian will diagnose entropion through an ocular examination. A fluorescein dye is administered to check for corneal ulcers. Entropion can be caused by an infection of the feline herpes virus, so testing is done to detect the presence of viruses or bacteria.

    Treatment

    • Surgery is the normal course of treatment. A skilled veterinarian is essential for this procedure to be effective, as overcorrecting entropion can cause the lid to roll too far outward and prevent the eye from closing properly. Depending on the underlying cause, a round of antibiotics may allow the eyelids to return to normal once the infection clears.

    After Care

    • Once surgery is performed, home care consists of administration of prescribed medications. Your cat will receive an Elizabethan collar--the large, cone-shaped collar--to prevent rubbing or bothering her healing eyes. Follow-up visits to your veterinarian may be necessary to ensure proper healing and the removal of any stitches.