Haws Syndrome in cats refers to a condition where their third eyelids become prominently visible. While often alarming, this phenomenon primarily indicates an underlying issue rather than being a severe disease itself. Knowing its appearance, benign nature, and when to seek veterinary attention is important for pet owners.
Understanding Haws Syndrome
Haws Syndrome is characterized by the protrusion of the nictitating membrane, commonly known as the third eyelid, in cats. This thin tissue normally remains tucked away, becoming visible only during sleep or blinking. When a cat has Haws Syndrome, this membrane partially covers both eyeballs, giving the eyes a distinctive, often sleepy or glazed appearance.
This condition is a sign of another bodily process. The third eyelid’s protrusion results from a temporary change in nerve supply, often triggered by a systemic disturbance. Haws Syndrome is generally temporary and self-limiting, typically resolving without specific medical intervention over a period of weeks.
Assessing the Danger of Haws Syndrome
Haws Syndrome itself is not dangerous to a cat’s health or vision. The third eyelid protrusion does not cause pain, and the internal structures of the eye remain normal. While the visible membrane might temporarily obscure a cat’s vision, it does not permanently impair their eyesight.
It is frequently associated with mild gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea, and can also be linked to intestinal parasites like tapeworms or Giardia. Other potential triggers include viral or bacterial infections, dietary changes, stress, or even mild dehydration. These associations suggest a connection between gut health and the nervous system controlling the third eyelid.
While often linked to these relatively benign issues, the appearance of Haws Syndrome can sometimes be similar to signs of more serious underlying conditions. For instance, trauma, tumors, or severe neurological problems can also cause third eyelid protrusion. However, these more severe conditions typically present with additional eye abnormalities, such as redness, discharge, or pain, or may affect only one eye.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
Pet owners should consult a veterinarian if their cat exhibits signs of Haws Syndrome to ensure an accurate diagnosis and rule out more serious conditions. This is especially important if the third eyelid protrusion persists for more than a few days or weeks, as Haws Syndrome typically resolves within 4 to 8 weeks. If the condition does not improve within this timeframe, re-evaluation is warranted.
Veterinary attention is also recommended if the third eyelid protrusion is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These include vomiting, persistent diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or signs of pain or discomfort. Additionally, if only one eye is affected, or if there is any redness, discharge, or swelling around the eyes, these could indicate a different, more severe eye condition requiring immediate treatment. A veterinarian can conduct a thorough physical and ophthalmic examination, and possibly perform tests like a phenylephrine challenge or a fecal analysis, to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate care.