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My cat's third eyelid is visible and her eye won't open. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 months and 12 days old

Hi when my cat looks to the side the corner of her eye is being covered with like an other eye lid but so is not opening her eye that much and it's like a layer of skin or something. What should I do?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 6th, 2017

What you are seeing is Zoe's third eyelid, which is a normal part of a cat's anatomy. What isn't normal, however, is it being out while her eye is open. Normally it comes out when her eye is closed, and if it's out while her eye is open, that signals a medical problem such as an eye infection. An eye infection would also keep her from opening her eye as normal. The eye is such a delicate and important structure that any problem with it should be considered an emergency. That's because leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. I would have Zoe seen by a vet as soon as possible to have her eye examined and treated.

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 25th, 2017

    Would you be able to post a picture of what you are looking at? That would help us to better be able to tell what is going on. Based on your description it sounds like you may be seeing your cat's third eyelid. These eyelids are usually tucked down under the lower lid and are usually not seen. If you are only seeing it when she is sleeping, it is totally normal. If you begin to see her third eyelid when she is awake, it could indicated a problem with the eye or the nerves of the face. If this does not sound like what is going on then try posting a picture so we can better help you. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2018

    When a cat's third eyelid is showing with their eyes open, this can be a sign of illness in the cat. It's not normal for it to be out with the eye open. I would give your vet a call to make an appointment for Dusty to be seen. The vet can diagnose what is causing this problem and the best way to treat it. Best of luck.

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