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Have you noticed your dog’s eye suddenly looking red, swollen, or irritated? If so, you might be dealing with a condition called cherry eye. This common eye issue can be alarming for pet parents, but the good news is that it’s treatable. In this post, we’ll explain what cherry eye is, what causes it, and how you can help your furry friend feel better.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Cherry eye is easy to spot once you know the signs. It occurs when the gland in your dog’s third eyelid (yes, dogs have a third eyelid!) becomes inflamed and protrudes, creating a red, swollen mass in the corner of their eye. This condition is most commonly seen in young dogs under two years old.
Common symptoms of cherry eye include:
- A red or pink bulge in the inner corner of one or both eyes
- Excessive tearing or eye discharge
- Squinting or pawing at the affected eye
- Dryness or irritation in the eye
While cherry eye itself isn’t typically painful, it can lead to discomfort or secondary issues if left untreated, such as dry eye or infections.
🔍 Possible Causes
Cherry eye occurs when the connective tissue holding the gland of the third eyelid weakens or becomes damaged. This causes the gland to pop out of its normal position. While any dog can develop cherry eye, some breeds are more prone to it due to genetic predisposition.
Breeds at higher risk include:
- Cocker Spaniels
- Bulldogs
- Beagles
- Boston Terriers
- Pugs
In addition to genetics, other factors like trauma to the eye or inflammation can contribute to cherry eye. If your dog develops this condition, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent further complications.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
If you suspect your dog has cherry eye, it’s natural to feel concerned. While cherry eye usually requires veterinary treatment, there are a few things you can do at home to keep your dog comfortable until you can see a vet.
- Keep the affected eye clean by gently wiping away any discharge with a damp, clean cloth.
- Prevent your dog from pawing or scratching at the eye to avoid further irritation or injury. An e-collar (cone) can be helpful for this.
- Apply artificial tear drops (safe for dogs) to keep the eye moist and reduce dryness.
These steps can provide temporary relief, but they won’t resolve the underlying issue. A vet visit is essential to properly treat cherry eye and prevent long-term problems.
💡 When to Call a Vet
It’s important to contact your vet as soon as you notice signs of cherry eye. While the condition isn’t usually an emergency, prompt treatment can prevent complications such as infections, chronic dry eye, or permanent damage to the gland.
Your vet may recommend one of the following treatments:
- Medication: In some cases, anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments can reduce swelling and discomfort, but this is usually a temporary solution.
- Surgery: The most effective treatment for cherry eye is surgical correction. Your vet will reposition the gland back into its normal location and secure it in place. It’s important not to remove the gland, as it plays a vital role in tear production.
After surgery, your dog may need a short recovery period with medications and an e-collar to protect the eye. Most dogs recover well and experience long-term relief from symptoms.
FAQs
Q: Can cherry eye go away on its own?
A: In rare cases, the gland may temporarily return to its normal position, but cherry eye typically requires veterinary treatment to prevent recurrence and complications.
Q: Is cherry eye painful for my dog?
A: Cherry eye itself isn’t usually painful, but it can cause irritation, dryness, or secondary issues if left untreated. Prompt care is important to keep your dog comfortable.
Q: How much does cherry eye surgery cost?
A: The cost of surgery varies based on factors like your location and the severity of the condition. On average, it can range from $300 to $800. Your vet can provide a more accurate estimate after an exam.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
