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Cherry Eye In Dogs: Frequently Asked Questions

3 October 2022

Aatu Leppo

Like other mammals, dogs have a third eyelid gland, or nictating membrane, inside their lower eye. The nictating membrane helps both protect the dog's eye and adds extra moisture. If the third eyelid gland becomes damaged, it is known as a cherry eye. This condition is more prevalent in some dog breeds and is entirely treatable.

Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions you might have about cherry eye in dogs.

What Exactly Is Cherry Eye?

Otherwise known as a prolapsed gland, cherry eye occurs when the ligaments that hold in the nictitating membrane fail, and the gland pops out of place. The red lump that comes out of the corner of the dog's eye is the prolapsed gland. The gland can be constantly prolapsed, or the prolapse can come and go.

In many cases, your dog will not feel any discomfort. However, if the prolapse is not treated or the protrusion becomes worse, your dog may begin to feel pain. Additionally, your dog might not be able to close its eye, or because the nictitating membrane is damaged, your dog may suffer from dry eye.  

What is the Cause of Cherry Eye?

The exact cause of cherry eye is not always known. However, some dog breeds are predisposed to develop the condition, including:

• English bulldogs
• Maltese
• Pekinese
• Boston Terriers
• St. Bernards
• Beagles

In addition to a predisposition, some dogs may develop a cherry eye because of eye trauma, such as during a fight or if your dog's eye becomes scratched. Cherry eye is also more common in younger dogs.

How Will My Veterinarian Treat Cherry Eye?

The same treatment is dependent upon the cause of the prolapse. For example, if the nictitating membrane becomes prolapsed due to inflammation from an infection or injury, treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories is the first course of treatment.

However, if the prolapse is severe, your dog might require surgery. Even if your dog isn't experiencing pain, it is essential to have the gland surgically repositioned to prevent dry eye. Unfortunately, if your dog suffers from cherry eye once, it is possible that the condition can occur again.

Additionally, there is no way that you can prevent a prolapsed gland in the future. This is why if your dog is prone to cherry eye, it is critical that you keep an eye on your dog's eyes and contact your veterinarian at the first sign of cherry eye.

Cherry eye is a common condition in some breeds of dogs, and it can be treated. Contact your local pet clinic with any further questions.

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