Dogs, like many other mammals, have a third eyelid, which is found in the lower eyelid. When the tear gland pops out of this third eyelid, it looks like a little pinkish-red ball, which is where the name cherry eye comes from.
For pet parents who have never seen this, it can be quite scary. It is a red lump in the corner of the eye that can cause discomfort and pain.
Content:
- What Is Cherry Eye in Dogs?
- What Causes Cherry Eye & How to Recognize the Signs
- Treatment & Surgery
- At-Home Care & When to See a Vet Immediately
- Conclusion
What Is Cherry Eye in Dogs?
Cherry eye is the common name used for a prolapsed third eyelid. The third eyelid is a thin membrane found in the corner of a dog’s eye that houses a tear gland, which should not be outwardly visible. Once this gland has popped out, it resembles a cherry, is either red or pink, and is found in the corner of the eye closest to the muzzle. The ‘cherry’ can be small and only visible occasionally, or large and cover a portion of the eye.
Dr. Dameski says:
“Prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, ‘cherry eye’, is caused by defects in the attachments between the third eyelid gland and periorbita.”
This gland is responsible for producing almost half of the watery portion of the eye’s tear film. A prolapse disrupts normal tear production, which can lead to discharge, irritation, redness, and even infection. A tear film is vital to a dog’s eyes, as it keeps the eye lubricated and healthy.
Dr. A. Elkasapy says in his research:
“The pocket technique preserved the morphology and integrity of the duct system of the nictitating gland and also resumes tear production. On the other hand, surgical excision of third eyelid gland eliminated about 40% of the tear production.”
Certain breeds are predisposed to developing cherry eye, such as English and French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, brachycephalic breeds, Boerboels, Great Danes, Beagles, and Bloodhounds.
What Causes Cherry Eye & How to Recognize the Signs
Unfortunately, the exact cause of cherry eye is unknown, although genetics are thought to play an important role. It is believed that the fibrous attachment that anchors the lower inner rim of the eye is weakened, and this is why the tear gland pops out. A prolapse of this gland is more likely to occur in dogs under the age of two.
Although no sex predisposition has been established, a higher incidence in males than females has been reported (Mazzucchelli et al., 2012).
There is another condition that looks like cherry eye called scrolled cartilage. When this occurs, a part of the cartilage of the third eyelid has grown abnormally and bends or ‘scrolls’, which creates a swelling in the same area where you would find a cherry eye. This condition is less common, and Great Danes are more predisposed. Unfortunately, scrolled cartilage can occur simultaneously with cherry eye.
Treatment & Surgery
The only effective treatment option available is surgical correction of the prolapsed gland and eyelid. If surgery is delayed, permanent damage to the eye and/or gland can occur. Some larger cities have veterinary ophthalmologists available that your dog may be referred to, but many general practitioner veterinarians are comfortable performing the procedure themselves. There are various surgical techniques, and your veterinarian will choose the one best suited for your dog.
“Currently, repositioning of the prolapsed gland is the gold standard for management,” write Dr. Oguntoye and colleagues in their article Modified Morgan Pocket Technique of Cherry Eye Repair in 31 Dogs.
Surgical removal of the gland is not recommended, as your dog will then most likely suffer from chronic dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or KCS), and an artificial tear ointment will need to be placed in the eye several times a day to keep it moist.
The cost of the surgery will depend on the severity of the cherry eye, the size of the dog, the technique used, and whether a specialist surgeon operates. The cost can range from $500 to $2,500 per eye.
In her article on cherry eye surgery options, Dr. Plummer says:
“The postoperative therapy after these procedures to reposition the gland of the nictitating membrane usually consists of topical antibiotics or antibiotics-corticosteroids three to four times daily until the prolapsed gland has reduced in size to about normal size, and supplemented several days with an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, such as carprofen, and an Elizabethan collar or other restraint device.”
The Petcube App is the only app you need to assist with at-home care. You can track your pet’s symptoms, health, and habits. You will also have access to certified vets for any guidance you may need on changes in behavior or symptoms.
At-Home Care & When to See a Vet Immediately
After surgery, eye medications are sent home with your pooch to prevent infection and manage pain and inflammation. In general, the swelling goes down and the third eyelid returns to normal a few weeks post-surgery.
There is, however, a chance that the eyelid can prolapse again, and additional surgery will then be needed. The risk of this occurring is higher if the surgery was performed long after the initial prolapse, if abnormal cartilage of the third eyelid is not corrected, and/or if the gland is very inflamed. If this occurs, you need to take your dog back to your vet immediately for further treatment and surgery. Removal of the third eyelid is not recommended as a permanent solution due to the risk of developing chronic dry eye. Only in rare cases will this be recommended.
Conclusion
If you notice any changes or masses in your dog’s eye, seek veterinary advice immediately. The chances of a second prolapse are significantly reduced if the gland is replaced soon after it occurs.
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