Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

What's that squiggly line in my cat's eye? Is it a worm? Vet cost?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | neutered | 3 years and 6 months old | 11 lbs

I think my cat might have Thelazia callipaeda. I noticed a glint in his eye that seemed odd like something was stuck. When I got closer it looks like a clear squiggly line which matches online pictures of that. Do I go to a vet? How much would something like that cost to fix? I'm so worried about my cat :(. The picture is not my cat but looked very much like that

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 12th, 2017

This definitely can be Thelazia. This worm invades the conjunctiva and can be found near the eye like this. It's difficult to tell depth from the picture, but it's also possible that this is a worm inside the eye, which can be due to heartworm, or other round worms.

In both cases you'll need to go to the vet for removal. It's not an emergency, but good to get an appointment within the next day or two. If it is in-fact Thelazia, then removal is not complicated when done by an experienced veterinarian. If the worm is inside the eye, then removal is much more complicated and you would have to be referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist for this.

I hope that helps and your kitty gets better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

My cat has crooked eyes. Why is her third eyelid showing? Is it worms?

It looks like your kitties have prolapsed third eye lids. I am assuming they are inside/outside cats and go hunting as well. A prolapse of the third eye lid can be caused by an infection with tape worm. We do not know why this happens, but most cats who have this (reversible) condition without other disease of the nervous system had a tape worm infection. Tape worm can be successfully treated with a wormer for cats containing praziquantel. If your cats show other signs of illness you should have them examined by a vet as there are other conditions that can cause this prolapse of the third eye lid.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog's eyes have jelly strands. Is it eye worms or just debris?

Yes, I see what you are talking about in the pictures and can't tell you for sure what they are. Unfortunately, it is impossible to tell without some additional ophthalmology equipment and magnification. I would recommend consulting with a veterinary ophthalmologist. Eye worms are quite rare and most of us have not seen them before, so it would be worth consulting with an expert. You can find a veterinary ophthalmologist near you here. http://member.acvo.org/search_results Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my cat's third eyelid dark and protruding? Should I worry?

The third eyelid does look a bit darker than normal, and they are protruding a bit, which can indicate a problem like intestinal worms. I'd have Leef checked out by a vet for this, and bring in a sample of his poop for the vet to examine for worms. If he does have worms, the vet can treat him. Give his vet a call to make him an appointment. I hope this helps.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog has eye worms and sleeping seizures. What should I do?

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I can't really see in your pictures clearly-I know it is very hard to get our pets to sit still sometimes. What you are describing sounds like Thelazia. As many as 100 worms can actually be present in the tear ducts, etc. it has been reported in humans as well so please be careful and wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. The condition is caused by hatches fly larva. You'll have to take her in to your vet for treatment-likely they will prescribe an antiparasiticide like ivermectin or moxidextin, and she may require antibacterial drops for the eyes as well. I hope this helps and Molly feels better soon!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My cat has something in eye, can't remove it. Is it an emergency?

I would have your cat seen by a vet and not try to get this thing out yourself anymore. You could accidentally do real damage to the eye by doing this. I would find an ER vet or a vet on call to see him today if your regular vet is closed. This is because any eye problem is considered an emergency. Leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog has a large red thing in his irritated eyes. Is it a worm?

This looks like a big vein, could be due to an eye infection. it could also be an eye worm but this is very rare and unlikely. you need to take KY to the vet ASAP in order to get it checked and treated, he will probably need antibiotic eye drops.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My cat's eye is weeping with pus and a lump appeared. Is it serious?

Oh my. This appears to possibly be an injury to the eye and subsequent infection. It is hard to tell the degree of injury based on the photos, a vet exam is definitely needed her. I would highly recommend taking Mow to your local vet right away to get this eye tested, fully examined and treated. Best case scenario is that there isn't permanent damage done to this eye and antibiotics/pain medication /- drainage of a potential abscess are needed to get Mow better. Best wishes at the vet and take care.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share