By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Cherry eye is the common name for a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid (nictitating membrane). It looks like a pink or red mass in the inner corner of the eye. This page is the primary overview. Related pages: what cherry eye is and why it happens and treatment and aftercare options.
Cherry eye is usually not an emergency by itself, but the exposed gland can become irritated, dry, or infected, and long-term tear production may be affected if it is left untreated. A veterinarian should confirm the diagnosis and discuss repair options.
Key takeaways
- The classic look is a smooth pink or red "cherry-like" bulge at the inner corner of one or both eyes.
- It is most often related to weakness of the connective tissue that holds the third-eyelid gland in place, with breed predispositions.
- Rubbing, discharge, swelling, and dry-eye risk can follow if the gland stays exposed.
- Veterinary treatment usually involves surgically replacing (not removing) the gland when possible.
- Do not try to push the gland back yourself or use leftover eye drops without guidance.
What cherry eye looks like
- Pink to red mass at the medial (inner) canthus
- May appear suddenly or after mild irritation
- One eye or both (sometimes sequential)
- Possible squinting, pawing, tearing, or mucoid discharge
Other eye problems (prolapse of other tissues, tumors, severe conjunctivitis) can look similar. Only an exam confirms cherry eye.
Associated causes and risk
- Laxity of the tissue anchoring the third-eyelid gland
- Breed predisposition (for example Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, and other brachycephalic or spaniel-type breeds are often discussed)
- Young dogs are commonly affected, though any age is possible
- Secondary inflammation can worsen the appearance
For a deeper anatomy and cause discussion, see what cherry eye is in dogs.
What to do
- Schedule a veterinary eye exam; ask about urgency if the eye is painful, cloudy, or heavily discharging.
- Prevent rubbing with an Elizabethan collar if your veterinarian recommends it.
- Do not use human eye products or leftover pet drops unless prescribed for this problem.
- Keep the face clean of discharge with veterinarian-approved methods only.
Treatment overview
Medical therapy alone rarely provides a lasting fix when the gland is prolapsed. Clinics commonly discuss surgical replacement techniques that tuck or anchor the gland so it can keep producing tears. Gland removal is generally avoided when possible because it can contribute to keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye). Aftercare may include topical medications, activity restriction, and rechecks. Details vary by technique and surgeon; see treatment and aftercare.
Prevention notes
- You cannot fully prevent a genetically influenced prolapse.
- Prompt care reduces irritation and protects long-term tear function.
- Watch the other eye after one side is affected; bilateral disease occurs in some dogs.
FAQ
Is cherry eye painful?
Some dogs seem comfortable; others rub or squint as inflammation builds. Pain or cloudiness needs prompt exam.
Will it go away on its own?
Occasionally the gland briefly reduces, but lasting correction usually needs veterinary treatment, often surgery.
Can an online vet diagnose it from a photo?
Photos can help triage, but an in-person exam is needed to confirm the diagnosis and plan surgery or medical care.
Talk with a vet
For a painful, cloudy, or rapidly worsening eye, seek in-person care. For planning questions after diagnosis, book a consultation at dialavet.com.
References
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Prolapse of the Gland of the Third Eyelid. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/eye-and-ear/ophthalmology/diseases-of-the-eyelids-in-animals
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Cherry Eye in Dogs. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cherry-eye-in-dogs
- American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) client education resources (discuss application with your clinician).
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog's eye is painful, cloudy, or rapidly changing, contact a veterinary hospital promptly.
