My cat's cloudy eye and prominent third eyelid returned. What's wrong?

Common causes of cloudy eyes include corneal ulcer/abrasion, dry eye, conjunctivitis, viral infection, glaucoma, uveitis, among a few others. Common causes for increased third eyelid exposure include allergies, dehydration, eye pain or light sensitivity. If this is a sudden change, I recommend that Marshmallow be evaluated as soon as possible as a few of these eye issues can get drastically worse very quickly. It is also likely that Marshmallow is very uncomfortable and could benefit from appropriate eye medications or pain medications.

I understand how frustrating this situation must be. Based on Mochi's young age, the fairly rapid progression, and the appearance of her eye in the picture, my best guess is that this may be symblepharon. With this condition, part of the eyelids and conjunctiva fuse to other surfaces in the eye, causing this diffuse white appearance. In some cases, tear production can be affected, causing a dry eye situation. Cats can be affected with this issues if they are infected with a viral infection (especially herpesvirus) early in life or in utero, or following other eye trauma (such as a corneal ulcer). The unfortunate thing is that once this change occurs, it's typically permanent. Aside from wiping the eye discharge periodically and monitoring for signs of dry eye (redness, irritation), there really isn't much that can be done. Now, with all of that said, I would still follow your ophthalmologist's guidance since they have examined Mochi. There are no specific tests for this condition aside from looking for changes during an eye exam. Since her eye has gotten more white since starting this medication, I think it would be best to return to the ophthalmologist for a follow up visit so that they can assess these new changes. I hope that everything goes well!

I am sorry to hear that but it is good that you tried to get Cookies some help! Elevated third eyelids can be caused by many different things including eye problems/irritation, respiratory infections, and a general feeling of being unwell. If the previous medicine did not help, I am sure your vet will want to see him again. I would want to know what his temperature was, how his eyes looked on exam and see if they recommend bloodwork, x-rays or further treatment (such as antibiotics or pain medicine). I hope this is helpful and that Cookies feels better soon!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Odette. Oh no, poor girl. Sounds like both of you have been through a tough time. I do not like the way this eye looks, but without seeing her in person, I can't say what needs to be done for her. I would see if there is a veterinary ophthalmologist in your area that you can take her into as soon as possible. Best of luck.

In this case a picture of the area would be essential to determine the underlying cause. Persistent corneal ulcers due to infections, corneal sequestrum and corneal scars and many others are all possible. Please repost your question and attach a pic to it.

Unfortunately, the picture is not clear enough for me to fully see the lesion. However, a diagnosis would require a full ophthalmic exam by a vet, so we would only be able to give educated guesses anyways. Cats with feline herpes virus at a young age can get severe ulcers in the cornea (the outside layer of the eye ball). This, or swelling within the cornea are the common causes of the cloudy appearance. With severe ulcerations, the cornea does not heal perfectly and can have a permanent scar - this could definitely be a reason for the cloudy spot you are describing. However, I would have expected one of the previous vets to have diagnosed this already, so it may be something else. Considering you have been to many veterinarians already and have not received an adequate answer, or potential treatment options (corneal scars can be remedied with minor surgery), I recommend seeking a referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist. They will be able to definitively diagnose the condition and will be the best professional to offer treatment. You can ask your vet about this option and I'm sure they will ensure you get the necessary information and referral. I hope that helps and all is well with Cinder.

As long as there is no pain, squinting or discomfort it is probably best left alone, it is likely there is permanent scarring which cannot be removed. Referral to a specialist ophthalmic surgeon could be considered to explore all possible options