Cats are admired for their mesmerizing eyes, but have you ever looked closely and wondered—do cats have eyelashes? At a glance, it might seem like they don’t, especially when compared to humans or dogs. But the truth is more nuanced. Cats do have eyelashes, but they are quite different in appearance and function compared to what we’re used to seeing.
This guide takes a deeper look at feline eyelash structure, how cats protect their eyes, and what role eyelashes may or may not play in their overall eye health.
Do Cats Really Have Eyelashes?
Yes, cats technically have eyelashes—but they are very subtle and not always easy to notice. Unlike humans, whose upper and lower lashes are long and prominent, cats tend to have fine, short lashes that blend in with the surrounding fur. These eyelashes are usually located on the upper eyelid and are much less developed than in many other species.
Most cats do not have lower lashes. The eyelashes they do have are often mistaken for short facial hairs or whisker-like fur around the eye.
Why Are Cat Eyelashes Less Noticeable?
Cats evolved as stealthy predators. Their facial features are streamlined for hunting and sensory awareness. Long, bushy lashes may not offer the same functional advantage for cats as they do for animals that rely more heavily on eye protection from dust or direct sun exposure.
Additionally, cats rely more on other features to protect their eyes, making prominent lashes less necessary.
How Do Cats Protect Their Eyes Without Prominent Eyelashes?
Even with short or almost invisible eyelashes, cats have several ways to keep their eyes safe and healthy.
Upper and Lower Eyelids
Cats blink regularly to keep their eyes moist and free from debris. Their eyelids close quickly to protect their eyes from sudden exposure to light, dirt, or objects in motion.
Third Eyelid (Nictitating Membrane)
One of the most important and unique eye-protecting features in cats is the third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane. This inner eyelid slides diagonally across the eye and offers additional protection, especially when sleeping or when a cat is unwell.
The third eyelid helps:
- Lubricate the eye
- Shield it from foreign particles
- Protect against injury without completely closing the eye
Whiskers and Eyebrow Hairs
Cats have vibrissae, or sensitive whiskers, above their eyes—sometimes referred to as eyebrow whiskers. These are not eyelashes, but they play a critical role in detecting touch and movement. When an object gets close to the cat’s eye, these whiskers can trigger a blinking reflex before contact is made.
Do Eyelashes Serve a Purpose in Cats?
While not as prominent as in humans or horses, the small lashes that cats do have still serve a protective function. They help:
- Keep dust or dirt from entering the eye
- Provide minimal buffering during blinking
- Assist in triggering the blink reflex if something brushes the face
However, compared to the function of a cat’s eyelids, third eyelid, and facial whiskers, eyelashes play a much smaller role in protection.
Are There Breeds of Cats with Noticeable Eyelashes?
In most cat breeds, eyelashes are so short that they’re barely visible. However, some long-haired breeds, such as Persians or Maine Coons, may appear to have longer lashes simply because their facial fur grows around the eyes. Even then, what seems like a lash may actually be part of the surrounding coat rather than a distinct eyelash.
Hairless breeds, like the Sphynx, often make it easier to see the absence or minimal presence of lashes. In these breeds, it’s more evident that cats don’t rely on eyelashes the way humans do.
Can Cats Have Eyelash Problems?
Although rare, cats can develop conditions related to eyelashes or the skin around the eyes. These may include:
Distichiasis
A condition where extra eyelashes grow in abnormal places, potentially irritating the eye. It’s rare in cats but can occur.
Entropion
This is a more common condition where the eyelid turns inward, causing fur or lashes to rub against the eye. It can lead to discomfort, tearing, or infection and may require surgical correction.
Eyelid Tumors or Infections
Tumors or swelling on the eyelid margin can interfere with normal lash growth or eyelid movement. In such cases, a vet should evaluate the situation promptly.
If your cat is blinking excessively, pawing at their eyes, or has visible redness or discharge, it’s important to get them checked by a veterinarian.
How to Care for a Cat’s Eyes and Eyelid Area
Even without visible eyelashes, your cat’s eyes still need basic care and observation to stay healthy.
Clean the Eye Area Gently
Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away any discharge from the corners of the eyes. Always wipe from the inner corner outward and use a different part of the cloth for each eye.
Check for Signs of Irritation
Monitor for squinting, redness, excessive tearing, or rubbing at the face. These signs may indicate an eye infection or irritation that needs veterinary attention.
Avoid Human Eye Products
Never use human eye drops, ointments, or medications on your cat without vet approval. Cats have different sensitivities and eye structure than humans.
Keep Fur Trimmed Around the Eyes (If Needed)
For long-haired breeds, trimming excess fur near the eyes can help prevent irritation. Always use blunt-tipped scissors and ask your vet or groomer for help if you’re unsure.
FAQs About Cats and Eyelashes
Do cats have eyelashes?
Yes, but they are very short and located primarily on the upper eyelid. They are usually difficult to see and much less prominent than human eyelashes.
Can cats have eyelash problems?
While rare, cats can suffer from issues like distichiasis or entropion that involve eyelash or eyelid irritation.
Why don’t cats have long eyelashes?
Cats rely more on their third eyelid, whiskers, and reflexes to protect their eyes. Long lashes are not necessary for their survival or function.
Do long-haired cats have longer eyelashes?
They may appear to, but what looks like eyelashes is usually just facial fur. True eyelashes are still short in most breeds.
Should I clean my cat’s eyelashes?
You can gently clean around the eyes if there’s buildup, but you don’t need to clean the lashes specifically unless directed by a vet.
