Distichia in Dogs and Cats
A Hidden Cause of Eye Discomfort
If your pet is squinting, tearing up frequently, or rubbing at their eyes, it may be more than just an allergy or minor irritation. One often-overlooked cause of eye discomfort in pets is a condition called distichia.
What Is Distichia?
Distichia occurs when extra eyelashes grow from an abnormal location—usually from the oil glands along the edge of the eyelid. These misplaced lashes often point inward toward the cornea (the clear surface of the eye), rubbing against it every time your pet blinks. Over time, this friction can cause chronic irritation, corneal ulcers, and even vision loss.
This condition is more common in dogs than cats, and certain breeds are predisposed, including Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and Golden Retrievers. Though rare in cats, when it does occur, it’s just as uncomfortable.
Signs of Distichia
The signs can range from mild to severe and may include:
Squinting or blinking excessively
Redness in or around the eye
Watery or thick eye discharge
Pawing or rubbing at the eye
Cloudiness on the eye's surface
Recurring corneal ulcers or infections
Sometimes these symptoms are mistaken for allergies or conjunctivitis, which is why a thorough eye exam by your veterinarian is so important.
How Is Distichia Diagnosed?
At Two Rivers Vet Hospital in Fargo, ND, we use magnification and specialized lighting to examine your pet’s eyelids and identify any abnormal lashes. We may also apply a fluorescein stain to check for corneal damage caused by the lashes rubbing on the eye.
Treatment Options
Mild cases of distichia may be managed with lubricating eye drops or ointments that help protect the cornea. However, more persistent cases often require removal of the offending lashes.
Treatment options include:
Manual plucking (though lashes tend to grow back)
Cryotherapy (freezing the hair follicle)
Electroepilation (destroying the follicle with electric current)
Surgical removal for severe or recurring cases
We tailor the treatment to your pet’s specific needs to ensure comfort and long-term relief.
When to Call Your Vet
If your pet has chronic eye irritation, don’t wait. Distichia is uncomfortable and can lead to more serious eye conditions if left untreated. Contact Two Rivers Vet Hospital today to schedule an exam and get your pet on the path to clearer, more comfortable vision.
