Cherry Eye in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Cherry eye in dogs happens when the third eyelid becomes inflamed and prolapsed. This causes a red, swollen lump in the dog’s eye. Although it’s not usually painful, if left untreated, cherry eye can lead to further complications, such as eye infections or chronic irritation. Early detection and treatment, including cherry eye surgery, are important to ensure your dog’s comfort and eye health.

What is Cherry Eye?

Cherry eye occurs when the third eyelid gland protrudes from its normal position. The third eyelid also called the nictitating membrane is located in the corner of the eye and helps keep the eye moist and protected. This gland, which helps tear production, becomes inflamed and swollen, leading to the red “cherry” appearance.

While cherry eye can affect any dog, some breeds are more prone to this condition due to their genetic makeup. If you notice the symptoms, cherry eye should be treated promptly to avoid further issues.

In This Article
Symptoms of Cherry Eye

Symptoms of Cherry Eye

The most common signs of cherry eye in dogs include:

  • Swelling and protrusion of the gland: A noticeable, reddish lump that appears in the corner of the dog’s eye.
  • Redness and irritation: The eye may look inflamed or irritated.
  • Excessive watering or discharge: Affected dogs may have watery eyes or a mucous-like discharge.
  • Squinting or rubbing the eyes: Your dog may seem uncomfortable and frequently paw at or rub their eyes.

If these symptoms are noticed, it is important to get your dog diagnosed by a vet to determine if cherry eye in dogs requires surgery or other treatments.

Causes of Cherry Eye

Causes of Cherry Eye

Cherry eye is one of the dog eye health issues that primarily results from a weakness in the connective tissue that holds the third eyelid gland in place.

Some of the most common causes include:

  • Genetic predisposition: Certain breeds, such as Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Shih Tzus, are more likely to develop cherry eye due to inherited traits.
  • Age-related factors: Older dogs may experience weakened connective tissue, which can make them more susceptible to cherry eye.
  • Injury or stress: Trauma to the eye area can sometimes trigger the condition.

Cherry eye is most common in:

Diagnosing Cherry Eye

Diagnosing Cherry Eye

If you suspect your dog has a cherry eye, a visit to the vet is necessary. The vet will conduct a thorough eye exam, assess the gland’s position, and rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

Cherry eye is generally easy to diagnose based on its appearance, but in some cases, further tests may be needed to check for secondary infections or complications. If diagnosed, your vet may recommend surgery or other treatments, such as eye drops for cherry eye.

Treatment Options for Cherry Eye in Dogs

Treatment Options for Cherry Eye in Dogs

Treatment for cherry eye in dogs depends on the severity of the condition:

  • Non-surgical treatment: In some cases, your vet may recommend eye drops to reduce inflammation and irritation. However, this is often a temporary solution and may not fully resolve the problem.
  • Surgical treatment: Cherry eye requires surgery. A common procedure involves repositioning the gland back into place. This can be done through a gland repositioning surgery. This was later found to increase the risk of the patient developing keratoconjunctivitis sicca, which can develop dry eye.
  • Aftercare following surgery: After the surgery, your dog will need monitoring, and you may need to apply prescribed eye drops or ointments. Post-surgical care and follow-up visits are essential to ensure proper healing and prevent the cherry eye in dogs.
Massage and Home Treatment for Cherry Eye in Dogs

Massage and Home Treatment for Cherry Eye in Dogs

Some owners wonder if there are home treatments for cherry eye in dogs, including the use of gentle massage to try and reduce swelling. However, while some mild cases may benefit from moistening the eye or using natural remedies.

A vet will provide advice on whether any at-home options, such as eye drops, could help with minor inflammation before the need for surgical intervention.

Can Cherry Eye in Dogs Go Away on Its Own?

Can Cherry Eye in Dogs Go Away on Its Own?

In some cases, cherry eye in dogs may seem to resolve on its own, especially if it is mild. However, this is not always the case, and recurrence is common. It’s crucial to understand that while the swelling might temporarily decrease, the underlying issue—weakness in the connective tissue—remains.

Cost of Cherry Eye Treatment in Dogs

Cost of Cherry Eye Treatment in Dogs

The cost of cherry eye treatment in dogs can vary depending on the type of treatment chosen. Surgery typically ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the complexity and location of the procedure. Non-surgical treatments, such as eye drops, are usually less expensive but may not be as effective in the long term.

When to See a Board-Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist

When to See a Board-Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist

If you notice signs of cherry eye in dogs, it is important to visit a vet. Early intervention can prevent complications and the need for more invasive treatments later on. Whether the condition requires eye dropsmassage, or surgery for cherry eye in dogs, your vet will guide you through the best course of action.

Key Takeaways

Cherry Eye Overview: The Cherry eye occurs when dogs have a third eyelid prolapse gland, causing a red, swollen lump in the eye.

Symptoms: Key signs include a reddish lump in the corner of the eye, excessive watering, irritation, and squinting.

Causes: Cherry eye is usually caused by weakened connective tissue, and factors like genetics, age, or injury can contribute.

Costs: Cherry eye surgery typically costs between $300 and $1,500, while non-surgical treatments are less expensive but less effective.

How do you treat cherry eye in dogs?

Cherry eye is typically treated with surgery to reposition the prolapsed third eyelid. In some cases, medication or ointments may be used temporarily, but surgical removal is the most effective solution.

Can cherry eye in dogs resolve itself?

In most cases, the cherry eye does not resolve on its own. The condition often requires surgical intervention to prevent further complications and discomfort for the dog.

How much does it cost to fix a cherry eye in a dog?

The cost of treating cherry eye in dogs can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the veterinary clinic, location, and the complexity of the surgery.

Is dog cherry eye an emergency?

While cherry eye is not typically an emergency, it should be addressed promptly to avoid discomfort and further health issues. Delaying treatment may lead to chronic irritation or damage to the eye.

Frequently Asked Questions

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