Entropion in Maine Coons: When Eyelids Attack#

You might think your Maine Coon is just “squinting” because of the sun, or maybe he has a permanent case of “bed face.” But if his eyes are constantly watery and he rubs his face on the carpet, he might have Entropion.

Entropion is a structural defect where the eyelid rolls inward. The eyelashes rub against the sensitive cornea with every blink. Imagine having sand in your eye, 24 hours a day, forever.

[cite_start]While rare in the general cat population, Robinson’s Genetics confirms that Entropion is becoming more common in breeds selected for “foreshortened faces” or specific head structures—like the broad-muzzled Maine Coon. [cite: 810]

The “Euro Look” Risk Factor#

The Maine Coon standard calls for large, wide-set eyes. However, in the pursuit of the “Extreme” or “Feral” look (especially in European lines), breeders have selected for deep-set, hooded eyes.

The Mechanics: When the eye is deep in the socket and the cheekbones are massive, the eyelid skin loses tension. It flops inward.
The Genetic Link: It is considered a polygenic trait. If a parent has it, the kittens are at high risk.

Symptoms: The “Weepy” Eye#

Epiphora: Constant tearing. The fur under the eye is stained brown.
Blepharospasm: Squinting or holding the eye shut.
Corneal Ulceration: The friction eventually scrapes the cornea, causing a cloudy blue spot or an open ulcer. This can lead to blindness.

The Fix: “Eye Tacking” or Surgery#

For Kittens (Eye Tacking): In young kittens, the head is still growing. Vets can place temporary sutures to “tack” the eyelids open. As the head expands, the problem often fixes itself.
For Adults (Blepharoplasty): If the cat is fully grown, surgery is required. The vet removes a thin crescent of skin from under the eye and stitches it back together, pulling the eyelid outward (like a facelift).

Conclusion#

Entropion is a structural flaw, not a disease. It is painful but fixable. If you are buying a kitten from “Deep Set” lines, check the parents’ eyes. If they are weepy, be wary.

References#

Vella, C. et al. (1999). Robinson’s Genetics for Cat Breeders and Veterinarians. “Genetic Anomalies: Entropion,” p. [cite_start]189. [cite: 810]
Pedersen, N.C. Feline Husbandry. “Developmental Anomalies,” p. [cite_start]114. [cite: 866]
ACVO (American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists). Entropion in Cats.
Walsh, L.G. The Maine Coon Cat. “Maine Coon Health Watch,” p. [cite_start]88. [cite: 3086]