Abnormal Eyelashes in Dogs

Below is a list of common questions and answers about abnormal eyelashes in dogs. Click on each question for more information. Cats may get abnormal eyelashes, but they are much more common in dogs. Learn more about Eye Conditions in Cats.

Abnormal eyelashes in dogs (also known as distichia or ectopic cilia) are small hairs that grow along the eyelid in the wrong direction.  The hairs may grow in toward the eye (ectopic cilia).  The abnormal eyelashes (distichia or ectopic cilia) are genetic and usually affect young dogs.  Cats may get abnormal eyelashes, but they are much more common in dogs.  Learn more about Eye Conditions in Cats. 

Sometimes, abnormal eyelashes are very soft and do not cause irritation. In many cases; however, they rub on the sensitive eye tissues and cause irritation. This feels like a “hair in the eye” for most dogs. These hairs may also cause wounds, ulcers, scar tissue or other changes to your pet’s eye. Your pet may experience squinting, tearing, rubbing or unwillingness to open the eye. Most of the time, you won’t actually see the hairs because they are so small.

The hairs are very small and you may not be able to see them. The most irritating hairs are the ones that grow in (ectopic cilia). These are under the eyelid, so you can’t see them at all. A full eye exam is recommended if your pet has squinting, tearing or corneal scratches. The abnormal eyelashes are seen with high magnification and ophthalmology equipment, used by our veterinary ophthalmology specialists.

Abnormal eyelashes in dogs (distichia or ectopic cilia) that are causing irritation should be permanently treated. If the abnormal eyelashes are growing into the eye under the eyelid, these are surgically removed using tiny incisions. This procedure requires high magnification and specialized training (veterinary ophthalmologist) to prevent damage to the eyelid. If the hairs are growing down (distichia), a freezing procedure is performed to treat the abnormal eyelashes permanently.

Most cases of abnormal eyelashes in dogs do not recur after treatment. Occasionally, re-treatment is necessary if the hairs are numerous.

If you think your dog has abnormal eyelashes or eye irritation, please schedule an appointment at our office.

  • abnormal eyelashes, distichia, in dogs
    A little Shih Tzu has a row of abnormal eyelashes growing down and touching the eye. These were irritating and permanently treated.
  • Abnormal eyelashes growing down in dogs
    A Bulldog puppy has sharp, irritating abnormal eyelashes growing down and touching the eye. These were treated permanently to remove them.
  • The underside of an eyelid is shown (high magnification) with a sharp, black hair coming from the eyelid. This was very irritating and was removed surgically.

We would love to meet your pet and talk with you about any eye condition your pet may have. Come visit us!

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