Distichiasis

What is Distichiasis?
Distichiasis is one of a number of eyelash disorders primarily affecting dogs and more rarely in cats.  Specifically, it occurs when small hairs emerge along the lid margin from or near the openings of the meibomian glands.  They may or may not contact the cornea.

How does my dog get Distichiasis?
Distichiasis is the result of facial conformation and breed predisposition. There are rare cases where the cause is unknown.

How do I know if my dog has Distichiasis?
Most of the time Distichiasis causes no problems at all. If the hairs are large or stiff, they may contact the cornea and result in blinking, tearing, discomfort, pawing at the face, and damage to the cornea. If these signs noted occur and your dog is a breed predisposed to distichiasis (see below), see your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will carefully examine your dog’s eyes and may even need magnification to identify distichiasis. Some cases will require a visit to a board certified veterinary ophthalmologist.

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 regrowth of distichia is common.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting Distichiasis?
Primarily, careful breed selection is the best way to avoid Distichiasis.

Are there certain breeds that get Distichiasis more often?
Breeds with prominent facial folds—Pekinese, pug, bulldog, cocker spaniels, among others.