Key Takeaways
Cherry eye is a common eye condition that can affect your dog's comfort and eye health. Here are some important things to know:
- Cherry eye affects the third eyelid: It occurs when the tear-producing gland slips out of place, creating a visible pink or red lump in the corner of the eye.
- Certain breeds are more susceptible: Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Shih Tzus are among the breeds more likely to develop cherry eye.
- Symptoms can include irritation and discharge: Along with visible swelling, dogs may experience redness, excessive tearing, squinting, or pawing at the affected eye.
- Surgery is often the recommended treatment: Medications may help manage inflammation, but surgical repositioning is generally the most effective long-term solution.
- Early veterinary care is important: Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications, protect tear production, and maintain your dog's eye health.
What Is Cherry Eye in a Dog?
Cherry eye is a condition that occurs when the tear-producing gland of a dog's third eyelid slips out of its normal position, creating a noticeable pink or red bulge near the inner corner of the eye.
Unlike humans, dogs have three eyelids: an upper eyelid, a lower eyelid, and a third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane. This third eyelid helps protect the eye and contains a gland responsible for producing a significant portion of the eye's tears.
When the tissue supporting this gland weakens, the gland can protrude and become visible. The resulting swelling resembles a small cherry, giving the condition its name.
Although a cherry eye dog may initially show little discomfort, the exposed gland can become inflamed and irritated. Without appropriate treatment, the condition may interfere with normal tear production and increase the risk of eye complications.
Symptoms of Cherry Eye in Dogs
The most recognizable symptom of cherry eye is a round, reddish-pink mass in the inner corner of one or both eyes. The swelling may appear suddenly and can vary in size.
Other common symptoms include:
- Visible swelling: A smooth, pink or red lump near the corner of the eye closest to the nose.
- Eye redness: Irritation or inflammation affecting the surrounding tissues.
- Excessive tearing: Watery eyes or increased tear discharge.
- Squinting or blinking: Signs that the affected eye may be uncomfortable.
- Pawing or rubbing: Your dog may rub their face against furniture or use their paws to relieve irritation.
- Eye discharge: Mucus-like discharge may develop, particularly when irritation is present.
Some dogs show no obvious signs of pain, especially during the early stages. However, a visible lump should never be ignored.
If your dog develops sudden eye swelling, persistent squinting, significant discomfort, or changes in vision, seek veterinary attention promptly.
What Causes Cherry Eye in Dogs?
The primary cause of dog cherry eye is weakness in the connective tissue that normally holds the third eyelid gland in place.
Although the exact reason for this weakness is not always known, several factors can increase a dog's likelihood of developing the condition.
Breed Predisposition
Cherry eye is more common in certain breeds, suggesting that genetics and facial anatomy play important roles.
Breeds commonly affected include:
- English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs
- Cocker Spaniels
- Beagles
- Shih Tzus
- Lhasa Apsos
- Boston Terriers
- Bloodhounds
However, cherry eye can develop in dogs of any breed.
Age
Cherry eye most frequently develops in puppies and young dogs, often before two years of age. Nevertheless, older dogs can also experience the condition.
Weak Supporting Tissue
Some dogs are born with weaker connective tissues surrounding the third eyelid gland. Over time, these tissues may fail to hold the gland securely in position, allowing it to protrude.
Cherry eye is not typically caused by an infection, although the exposed gland can become irritated or develop secondary inflammation.
How Is Cherry Eye Diagnosed?
A veterinarian can usually diagnose cherry eye through a physical examination of the affected eye.
During the examination, they will assess the appearance and position of the third eyelid gland and check for signs of irritation, injury, or other eye conditions.
Additional testing may include a Schirmer tear test to measure tear production or fluorescein staining to check for scratches or ulcers on the cornea.
These tests help determine whether the condition has affected the eye's health and guide the most appropriate treatment approach.
Cherry Eye Dog Treatment Options
The recommended cherry eye dog treatment depends on the gland's condition, the severity of inflammation, and whether one or both eyes are affected.
Medications and Supportive Care
In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe lubricating eye drops or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce irritation and protect the eye's surface. However, medication alone generally does not permanently correct the prolapsed gland. Even if the swelling temporarily improves, the gland may protrude again.
Surgical Correction
Surgery is generally considered the preferred long-term treatment for cherry eye. During a cherry eye surgery dog procedure, a veterinary surgeon repositions the prolapsed gland and secures it within its normal anatomical location.
One commonly used approach is the pocket technique, which involves creating a small pocket of tissue to hold the gland in place. Preserving the gland is particularly important because it contributes significantly to tear production. Removing it can increase the risk of keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly called dry eye, which may require lifelong management.
Although surgery is often successful, recurrence is possible, and some dogs may require additional treatment.
Recovery After Cherry Eye Surgery
Following surgery, most dogs require a period of restricted activity and careful monitoring while the eye heals.
Your veterinarian may recommend:
- Using a protective Elizabethan collar to prevent rubbing or scratching.
- Administering prescribed eye medications as directed.
- Limiting rough play and activities that could irritate the eye.
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and gland position.
Recovery instructions vary depending on the surgical technique and your dog's individual needs. Always follow your veterinarian's postoperative recommendations.
Can Cherry Eye in Dogs Be Prevented?
Because cherry eye is often associated with inherited anatomical characteristics, there is no guaranteed way to prevent it.
However, regular veterinary examinations and prompt attention to eye changes can help identify problems early.
Avoid attempting to push the gland back into place yourself or using over-the-counter eye medications without veterinary guidance, as these actions may cause additional irritation or injury.
When to Seek Veterinary Care for Cherry Eye
Cherry eye is not always an immediate emergency, but it should be evaluated promptly to reduce the risk of ongoing irritation and complications.
If you notice unusual swelling, redness, discharge, or discomfort around your dog's eyes, contact your primary care veterinarian for an examination.