What is Entropion?
Entropion is a malformation of the eyelids that causes them to roll inward, leading to direct contact between the hairs and the cornea. This constant friction can result in irritations, infections, and, in severe cases, corneal ulcers. Entropion can affect a single eyelid or multiple eyelids, depending on the severity of the condition. Entropion in cats is less common than in dogs, but it can still occur, particularly in certain predisposed breeds:
- Persian
- British Shorthair
- Maine Coon
- Burmese
In most cases, entropion in cats is congenital, meaning it is present from birth and is diagnosed before the age of one year. However, it can also be acquired, appearing as a result of an eye problem, chronic inflammation, or trauma.
What are the Symptoms of Entropion in Cats?
Clinical signs vary depending on the severity of the eyelid’s friction against the cornea. Common symptoms include:
- Clear or purulent ocular discharge due to irritation or infection.
- Redness and swelling of the conjunctiva caused by persistent inflammation.
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), making the cat more reactive to light stimuli.
- Excessive blinking or blepharospasm, which is the involuntary closure of the eyelids.
- Ocular discomfort and itching, leading the cat to rub its eyes.
- Corneal ulcer, which can lead to eye perforation if the condition is not treated promptly.
If your cat exhibits one or more of these symptoms, a veterinary consultation is essential. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough ophthalmological examination to assess the integrity of the cornea and determine the best treatment.
How to Treat Entropion in Cats?
Treatment depends on the severity of the problem and associated complications. Two options are possible:
- Conservative medical treatment, used in some cases to limit symptoms.
- Surgical treatment, recommended to permanently correct the malformation.
Medical Treatment
In some cases of mild or temporary entropion, medical management may be sufficient. This includes:
- Application of lubricating gels to protect the cornea and reduce inflammation.
- Administration of an antibiotic ointment in case of eye infection.
- Use of an Elizabethan collar to prevent the cat from scratching and worsening its condition.
- Oral anti-inflammatories, as recommended by the veterinarian.
However, this treatment does not correct the eyelid malformation and only limits complications. When entropion persists or worsens, surgical intervention is necessary.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is the preferred solution to definitively treat entropion in cats. However, it is generally performed when the animal has reached full growth to avoid overcorrection.
The procedure involves:
- Removing excess skin from the eyelid to restore an anatomically correct position.
- Adjusting the shape of the eyelids so they protect the cornea without causing friction.
- Suturing the operated area to stabilize the correction and ensure optimal healing.
In some cats, particularly those with moderate entropion, laser treatment may be considered. This technique allows for slight tightening of the eyelid skin by superficially burning the tissues, thus avoiding more invasive surgery.
Post-Operative Recovery
After the procedure, it is essential to follow the veterinarian’s recommendations to ensure optimal healing. The cat will need to:
- Wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent scratching its eyelids and removing the sutures.
- Receive eye care, such as drops or ointments, to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
- Take oral anti-inflammatories or analgesics, if necessary, to relieve post-operative discomfort.
Veterinary follow-up will verify healing and assess if surgical touch-ups are needed.
Conclusion
Although rarer in cats than in dogs, entropion can lead to severe eye pain and complications. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment improve your companion’s visual comfort and prevent irreversible lesions. If your cat exhibits excessive tearing, redness, or unusual blinking, consult your veterinarian promptly to determine the best solution.
