Distichiasis

What is Distichiasis?
Distichiasis is a condition that encompasses a number of eyelash disorders that primarily affects dogs and in rare instances, cats.  Specifically, it occurs when extra eyelashes called distichia emerge along the lid margin from or near the openings of the meibomian glands. These hairs often come in contact with the cornea and cause tearing, irritation and in some instances, corneal abrasions.

How does my cat get Distichiasis?
The cause is unknown in cats, but in dogs, distichiasis is the result of facial conformation and breed predisposition.

How do I know if my cat has Distichiasis?
Look for tearing in your cat’s eyes or rubbing of the face to try to alleviate irritation. If these signs occur, consult your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will carefully examine your cat’s eyes and may even need magnification to identify distichiasis. A tear test may be performed to assess tear production and fluorscein staining of the cornea may be done to assess any signs of corneal abrasions or ulcers. Some cases will require a visit to a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist to confirm diagnosis.

What can I do about Distichiasis?
Treatment will be based upon the severity and the presence of corneal damage or injury. When present, irritating hairs are best removed by surgery, cryotherapy, electrocautery, electo-epilation, or removal via surgical resection. Note that re-growth of distichia is common so regular veterinarian visits are advised to monitor this condition.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my cat from getting Distichiasis?
Not really as there is no specific feline breed linked to this condition.

Are there certain breeds that get Distichiasis more often?
Although specific canine breeds have been identified, there is no specific cat breed that has been identified to be at risk for this rare disease.