A cat has its eyes half-closed with a white film, what is it? - briefly
A cat with half-closed eyes and a white film over them may be suffering from conjunctivitis or an eye infection. It's crucial to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
A cat has its eyes half-closed with a white film, what is it? - in detail
When you notice that your cat's eyes are half-closed and have a white film over them, it can indicate several conditions. The most common explanation for this phenomenon is nictitating membranes, also known as the "third eyelid." This thin, pinkish-white tissue is located in the inner corner of the eye and serves to protect the eye from irritants or injury. When a cat's eyes appear half-closed with a white film, it often means that the nictitating membranes are partially covering the eyeball for protective purposes.
However, there are other potential causes for this appearance:
-
Conjunctivitis: This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer of tissue that lines the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. Conjunctivitis can cause redness, swelling, and a discharge that may appear as a white film over the eye.
-
Corneal Ulcer: A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the surface of the eye. It can be caused by trauma, infection, or disease. In some cases, a cat with a corneal ulcer might have its eyes partially closed and may exhibit a white film due to discharge or the presence of the third eyelid protecting the affected area.
-
Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): Dry eye occurs when there is insufficient tear production, leading to dryness and irritation of the eyes. This condition can cause the eyes to appear half-closed and may result in a white film forming on the surface of the eye due to discharge or the presence of the third eyelid.
-
Uveitis: Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains most of the eye's blood vessels. In some cases, this condition can cause the eyes to appear half-closed and may result in a white film due to discharge or the presence of the third eyelid.
If you notice your cat's eyes are half-closed with a white film, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian promptly. A thorough examination will help determine the underlying cause and ensure that appropriate treatment is administered. Regular check-ups can also prevent potential complications and maintain your cat's overall eye health.