Welcome to our Peculiar Pet Facts collection, the place we examine the eccentricities of our pets and discover the science behind them.
It sounds (and appears) prefer it originates from science fiction, however the often hidden third eyelid of cats and canine has an necessary position in eye safety. It’s additionally related to a situation often called “cherry eye.”
Nictitating Membranes
Third eyelids, additionally known as nictitating membranes, are skinny, translucent-to-opaque membranes discovered beneath the decrease eyelid, within the nook of the attention closest to the nostril. They are current in birds, reptiles and a few mammals, together with cats and canine.
Why Do Cats and Dogs Have a Third Eyelid?
The objective of the nictitating membrane is to guard the attention (significantly the cornea) from mud, grime and different undesirable materials. A gland beneath the membrane retains the attention moist by producing tears. The nictitating membrane additionally has tissue related to the immune system that may assist heal eye wounds or infections by stretching throughout the injured eye.
A Visible Third Eyelid Is Not Normal
Nictitating membranes are usually not often seen in cats and canine except there’s a medical challenge like an an infection, cyst or different underlying situation. If you may see your cat or canine’s nictitating membrane, you must take them to a veterinarian to have their eye examined.
Cherry Eye Is No Pie
A typical purpose that pet mother and father discover their cat or canine’s third eyelid is when their pet develops “cherry eye” — a prolapse of the third eyelid gland. When the connective tissue that attaches the gland to the internal floor of the third eyelid is weak, the gland can protrude from behind the eyelid. It seems like a spherical or oval piece of pink tissue within the nook of the attention.
Any cat or canine can develop cherry eye, however it’s most typical in Burmese and Persian cats and canine with distinguished eyes like cocker spaniels and English bulldogs. Cherry eye can’t be prevented, however it may be handled surgically by placing the gland again in place and suturing it into place.
As peculiar as they appear, nictitating membranes are necessary for holding cat’s and canine’s eyes wholesome. If you’re involved about your pet’s eyes or eyelids, have your pet checked by a veterinarian.
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