Dr. Dan Christian specializes in small animal medicine, with special interests in behavior and nutrition. He has been instrumental in establishing animal behavior residencies for veterinarians at leading veterinary schools and developing innovative programs with veterinary organizations in the United States. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. During his professional career, Dr. Christian earned the American Association of Feline Practitioners Award. He has also appeared as a guest on television and radio pet health programs nationwide, and to has authored numerous articles for pet health magazines.

Q: We have wonderful seven-month-old kitten. She has been spayed and is happy and playful. Today we noticed that her left eye appears to have a film over it. We think she can still see out of it, but we are concerned as to what it might be or if there is anything we can do. Any suggestions?

A: Your question regarding a film over the kitten's eye is a good one, and is a common observation of cat owners. Often, the cat's third eyelid is mistaken for film or mucous when that eyelid is partially pulled across the eyeball. To help get you oriented on this, humans have two eyelids: an upper and a lower one. Cats, however, have a third eyelid. In addition to the upper and lower ones, which are obvious, the third eyelid sits in the corner nearest the nose, inside the other two. It serves as additional protection, and the cat can pull it across the eye when needed (when walking through tall, dense grass, for example) and also when she is sleeping.

If the eyeball is irritated from a scratch or infection, the third eyelid will be pulled across it then, as well. If the third eyelid is visible over the eye for any extended period of time, you should consult your veterinarian right away.

You may also be seeing mucous, which the eye produces in excess when there is an infection or ulcer in the eye. This would also certainly indicate a need to visit your veterinarian promptly for proper treatment.