What are distichiasis, trichiasis, and ectopic cilia?

These are all abnormalities in eyelash direction or position that may cause lashes to contact the cornea or conjunctiva, leading to irritation, tearing, or pain. If suspected, a vet can confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan with a slit-lamp examination.

What should I do if my pet keeps rubbing its eye?

Start by recording the symptom, taking photos or video, and noting the colour of any discharge. If the rubbing continues or the eye stays red and swollen, arrange an ophthalmology appointment promptly to prevent further corneal damage.

Does an eyelash disorder always require surgery?

Not necessarily. Mild irritation may respond to medication or local treatment, but if lashes persistently contact the cornea or the condition recurs, the vet may recommend surgical correction to prevent long-term corneal damage. The decision should be based on the vet's assessment.

What information should I bring to an eye appointment?

Bring close-up photos and short videos, the symptom onset time and progression, a description of any discharge, and a list of current medications. Also confirm in advance whether the clinic has ophthalmic examination equipment.

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

Eyelash Disorders in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Slit-Lamp Exam & Treatment Guide [2025]

Eyelash disorders — including distichiasis, trichiasis, and ectopic cilia — cause eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Signs include eye redness, tearing, and corneal ulcers. Treatment ranges from manual hair removal to permanent surgical correction.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVO, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Sudden heavy bleeding from the eye that does not stop
•Obvious protrusion of the eyeball or inability to open the eye normally
•Sudden loss of vision or clearly impaired sight

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent redness and swelling of the eye lasting more than two days without improvement
•Repeatedly pawing or rubbing the same eye
•Abnormal discharge with a change in color

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Abnormal eyelash growth direction or quantity often irritates the cornea or conjunctiva, causing redness, tearing, and eye-rubbing.

Persistent eye redness and swelling, often worse on one side
Frequent pawing or rubbing at the eye, unable to rest comfortably
Abnormal discharge or stickiness at the corner or surface of the eye
Prolonged squinting, light sensitivity, or reluctance to open the eye
Suspected vision changes — bumping into furniture or slower reactions
Visibly abnormal eyelash direction or eyelashes making direct contact with the cornea

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Sudden heavy bleeding from the eye that does not stop
⚠️ Obvious protrusion of the eyeball or inability to open the eye normally
⚠️ Sudden loss of vision or obvious vision impairment

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key observations and emergency indicators

At home, record the progression and eye details — this information helps the vet make a faster and more accurate assessment.

Note when symptoms were first noticed and the order in which they appeared
Take close-up photos and short video clips of the eye for reference
Watch for noticeable changes in alertness, appetite, or water intake
Record the colour, volume, consistency, and any odour of eye discharge
Note whether the pet consistently rubs or squints the same eye
If symptoms do not improve or worsen, schedule an ophthalmology appointment as soon as possible

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common examination steps

A full ophthalmic examination is performed at the clinic; special staining or blood tests may be arranged to identify the source of irritation and any complications.

Slit-lamp exam

high-magnification assessment of the cornea and conjunctiva

Corneal staining

evaluation for ulcers or surface abrasions

Eyelash examination

confirming abnormal growth direction and quantity

Basic vision and pupillary reflex tests to assess eye function

Blood or biochemistry tests arranged as needed to assess overall health

Complex or recurrent cases may be referred to a veterinary ophthalmology specialist

04How is treatment managed after diagnosis? Medication, diet, and home care guide

Treatment may include medication to control inflammation or surgical correction of eyelashes, with regular follow-up visits to monitor progress and wound healing.

Short-term use of eye drops or ointment to control inflammation and infection
Surgical correction may be needed if eyelashes continue to irritate the cornea
Follow-up visits as directed to confirm treatment effectiveness and corneal healing
Keep the area around the eye clean at home and follow medication timing and technique exactly
Recurrent or long-standing issues warrant evaluation for surgical treatment
Bring photos or videos to follow-up appointments to help compare changes over time

05What to prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet work faster

Take clear close-up photos and short videos of the eye from multiple angles

Record the onset time and a detailed timeline of how symptoms have progressed

Describe discharge colour, consistency, and how it has changed day to day

Note any signs of vision changes or pain-related behaviour

Bring your pet's routine, current medications, and a comfortable carrier

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.