Trichiasis

What is Trichiasis?
Trichiasis is a medical term that describes a group of eyelash disorders caused by normal hairs touching the cornea or conjunctiva (lining of the eyelid). These ingrown eyelashes trigger irritation, inflammation and changes in the eye. This condition is more common in dogs than cats because cats normally do not have eyelashes, but there are exceptions.

How does my cat get Trichiasis?
This is generally viewed as a genetic defect affecting cats with prominent nasal folds, such as Persian cats. Trichiasis can also develop after eye surgery or a trauma to the eyelid area.

How do I know if my cat has Trichiasis?
Classic signs include repetitive blinking, excessive tearing or eye squinting. The cornea may be cloudy or blackened. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough eye exam and the case may be referred to a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist for a definitive diagnosis and treatment.

What can I do about Trichiasis?
Conservative care involves keeping the hair around your cat’s eyes trimmed to prevent the hairs from growing towards and touching the cornea. Special eye ointments help protect the corneas. Surgery may be necessary to remove the irritating hairs and repair any damage caused to the eyes.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my cat from getting Trichiasis?
There is no preventative care for Trichiasis.

Are there certain breeds that get Trichiasis more often?
No breed is particularly predisposed to this condtion.