Can entropion resolve on its own?

Minor cases may show temporary improvement, but most will continue to cause corneal irritation. A vet assessment is recommended to determine whether treatment and monitoring are needed.

Does entropion always require surgery?

Whether surgery is needed depends on the severity and recurrence of the condition. Mild cases may be managed conservatively first; surgery is typically recommended when the entropion is severe or causing ongoing corneal irritation.

What home care can help relieve my pet's discomfort?

Keep the area around the eye clean, prevent your pet from rubbing or pawing at the eye, use an e-collar if advised, and attend follow-up visits as instructed. Ask your vet for specific guidance.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Entropion in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Eye Exam & Care Guide [2025]

Entropion is an inward rolling of the eyelid that causes eyelashes or the lid margin to rub against the cornea. Commonly seen in Shar-Peis, Chow Chows, and Persian cats. Mild cases may be managed with eye drops; moderate to severe cases typically require surgical correction.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

PetHealthMap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, ISFM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Teaching Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Eye remains tightly shut and the pet strongly resists opening or touching it
•Heavy, thick discharge flowing continuously from the eye without stopping
•Obvious corneal cloudiness or rapidly deteriorating vision-related behavior

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Noticeably increased eye discharge that keeps returning after cleaning
•Frequent blinking or repeated rubbing of the eye with a paw or leg
•Redness, swelling, or skin inflammation around the eye that worsens day by day

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Entropion causes eyelashes or the lid margin to rub against the cornea, leading to increased eye discharge, redness, and signs of discomfort.

Noticeably increased eye discharge, which may be watery or thick and mucoid
Persistent redness or swelling around the eye, skin irritation, or hair loss around the eye area
Frequent blinking, squinting, or pawing at the eye
Excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, or inability to fully open the eye
If you notice any of the above symptoms, book a veterinary or ophthalmology appointment as soon as possible

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Seek immediate veterinary attention if there is continuous pus discharge or suspected damage to the surface of the eye

02How to Assess the Situation at Home: Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care

Before visiting the vet, observe and note a few key details at home to help the vet assess the condition and possible causes quickly.

Note when symptoms first appeared and how they have changed over time
Observe whether your pet's overall alertness and demeanour remain normal or have changed noticeably
Monitor whether appetite and water intake have decreased or increased
Check that urination and bowel movements are normal and record their frequency
Observe whether your pet's activity level is reduced or whether they are avoiding light
Weigh your pet over several consecutive days and note the trend for the vet's reference

03How Will the Vet Diagnose This? Common Examination Procedures

Upon arrival, the vet will perform both an ocular and general physical examination to identify corneal damage, infection, or other complications.

Ophthalmic physical examination

assessment of eyelash position, eyelid inversion, and conjunctival condition

Corneal fluorescein staining and slit-lamp examination to evaluate corneal abrasions or ulcers

Tear production test (Schirmer tear test) and ocular discharge sampling to identify infection or inflammation

Blood count and biochemistry panel to assess overall health and rule out systemic disease

Head imaging (X-ray or ultrasound) or specialist referral as indicated

04How Is Entropion Treated? Medication, Adjustments & Home Care Guide

Treatment aims to reduce corneal irritation from the eyelid or lashes, control inflammation, prevent complications, and monitor recovery with regular follow-up.

Use topical or oral medications as prescribed by your vet to control inflammation and infection
Corrective surgery or referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist may be recommended in more severe cases
Home care includes keeping the area around the eye clean and preventing your pet from pawing at or rubbing the eye
Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor corneal healing and any changes in vision
Follow-up examinations assess the response to treatment and allow the vet to adjust the management plan as needed
Bring your symptom notes and photos to follow-up visits to help the vet assess treatment progress

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet

Record when symptoms started, whether the onset was sudden, and how they have progressed

List any recent changes to your pet's diet, feeding habits, or living environment

Note any changes in urination or bowel habits and record any abnormal findings

Bring a list of all current medications and supplements your pet is receiving

Take close-up photos or a short video of the affected eye with your phone and bring them to the appointment

It is recommended to call ahead and book an appointment at a clinic with ophthalmology expertise

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.