Cherry eye is a common and sometimes alarming condition in dogs. It is characterized by a red, fleshy mass that protrudes from the inner corner of the eye, resembling a cherry. This mass is actually the dog’s nictitating membrane, also known as the third eyelid, which normally sits tucked beneath the upper eyelid. When the tissue supporting the nictitating membrane weakens, it can prolapse, leading to the visible “cherry” appearance. While it might seem worrisome, cherry eye is usually treatable with proper veterinary care.
What is Cherry Eye and What Causes It?
The nictitating membrane, often called the third eyelid, is a transparent, triangular-shaped membrane located in the inner corner of the eye. It provides protection for the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, and helps to spread tears evenly across the surface of the eye. It also contains tear-producing glands that contribute to the lubrication and health of the eye.
Cherry eye occurs when the connective tissue that anchors the nictitating membrane to the eye weakens. This weakening can be caused by several factors, including:
Hereditary predisposition: Certain breeds of dogs are genetically predisposed to cherry eye, including:
- Smaller breeds: Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Poodles
- Larger breeds: Great Danes, Rottweilers, Bloodhounds, and German Shepherds
Inflammation: If the third eyelid becomes inflamed or irritated, it can put pressure on the supporting tissue, weakening it over time.
Trauma: An injury to the eye area can damage the tissue supporting the nictitating membrane, leading to prolapse.
Age: As dogs age, the tissues in their body can become weaker, increasing their risk of developing cherry eye.
How Does Cherry Eye Affect My Dog?
Cherry eye itself is not painful, but the exposed nictitating membrane can be irritated and prone to drying out. This can lead to a number of complications:
Eye irritation and discomfort: The prolapsed nictitating membrane can rub against the cornea, causing irritation, discomfort, and even corneal ulcers.
Dry eye: The exposed membrane may not produce tears as effectively, leading to dry eye, which can damage the cornea.
Increased risk of infection: The prolapsed membrane is more susceptible to infection, which can lead to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of Cherry Eye in Dogs
If you notice the following symptoms in your dog, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian:
- A red, fleshy mass protruding from the inner corner of the eye.
- Excessive tearing or discharge from the eye.
- Squinting or rubbing at the eye.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Redness or inflammation of the eye.
Diagnosing Cherry Eye
A veterinarian can usually diagnose cherry eye with a simple physical examination. They will examine the dog’s eye, checking for the presence of a prolapsed nictitating membrane. If necessary, they may use a magnifying device or special dyes to further examine the eye and rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for Cherry Eye
Treatment for cherry eye typically involves surgical correction, although in rare cases, non-surgical options may be considered.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical correction is the most common and effective treatment for cherry eye. It involves repositioning the prolapsed nictitating membrane and attaching it to the surrounding tissue using sutures. There are several surgical techniques, but the general goal is to secure the membrane in its normal position and prevent it from prolapsing again.
Surgical Procedure
The surgical procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The veterinarian will clean the dog’s eye and administer local anesthetic.
- Exposing the nictitating membrane: The veterinarian will gently pull the membrane forward to expose the supporting tissue.
- Suturing: The veterinarian will use sutures to attach the nictitating membrane to the surrounding tissue, securing it in its normal position.
- Closure: The veterinarian will close the incision and apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Post-Operative Care
After surgery, your veterinarian will provide you with instructions for caring for your dog’s eye. This may include:
- Antibiotic ointment: This will help prevent infection.
- Eye drops: These may be prescribed to lubricate the eye and reduce inflammation.
- Elizabethan collar: This will prevent your dog from scratching or rubbing its eye.
Prognosis
The prognosis for surgical correction of cherry eye is generally good. Most dogs recover well from surgery and experience a significant improvement in their eye health. However, there is a small risk of recurrence, especially in dogs with strong genetic predispositions.
Non-Surgical Treatment
In some cases, non-surgical treatment options may be considered, especially for mild cases of cherry eye. These options include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: These medications can help reduce inflammation and swelling, potentially improving the appearance of the prolapsed membrane.
- Topical lubricants: Lubricating eye drops or ointments can help keep the eye moist and prevent irritation.
However, non-surgical treatment is often less effective than surgery and may not permanently address the underlying cause of the condition.
Preventing Cherry Eye
While there is no foolproof way to prevent cherry eye, there are some things you can do to reduce your dog’s risk:
- Choose a breed less prone to the condition: If you are considering adopting a dog, choose a breed that is not known to be predisposed to cherry eye.
- Avoid eye trauma: Protect your dog’s eyes from injuries by keeping them away from sharp objects and by using appropriate safety gear when engaging in activities that could put their eyes at risk.
- Provide good nutrition: A balanced diet can help maintain the health of your dog’s connective tissues, potentially reducing the risk of cherry eye.
Living with Cherry Eye
Cherry eye is a common condition that can be treated effectively. With prompt veterinary care and proper aftercare, most dogs can live happy and healthy lives, even with cherry eye.
Conclusion
Cherry eye is a condition that affects the third eyelid in dogs, causing a visible protrusion that resembles a cherry. While it may seem alarming, it is typically treatable with surgery. If you notice any symptoms of cherry eye in your dog, it’s important to seek veterinary care for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With proper management, most dogs with cherry eye can live normal and fulfilling lives.
FAQ
What is Cherry Eye in Dogs?
Cherry eye is a condition in dogs where the gland that helps lubricate the eye, called the nictitating membrane or third eyelid, protrudes out of the eye. This protrusion makes the gland appear like a cherry-red mass on the inside corner of the eye. Cherry eye can affect one or both eyes and is most common in certain breeds like Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Shih Tzus.
While it may look alarming, cherry eye itself is not painful but can cause discomfort due to the exposed gland becoming dry and irritated. This can lead to further problems like corneal ulceration and dry eye. Treatment is necessary to prevent these complications and maintain proper eye health.
What Causes Cherry Eye in Dogs?
The exact cause of cherry eye is unknown, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition and anatomical factors. Certain breeds are more prone to cherry eye due to the shallow socket in which the third eyelid gland sits. This shallowness can allow the gland to protrude with minimal stress or strain. In addition, the connective tissues that hold the gland in place may be weak or underdeveloped, making it more susceptible to displacement.
Environmental factors such as allergies, infections, and eye trauma can also contribute to the development of cherry eye. However, the primary cause remains the underlying anatomical predisposition present in certain breeds.
Is Cherry Eye Painful for Dogs?
Cherry eye itself is not typically painful for dogs, but it can cause discomfort due to the exposed gland drying out and becoming irritated. This irritation can lead to excessive blinking, squinting, and tearing. In severe cases, the exposed gland may even become infected, causing pain and swelling.
It’s important to note that while cherry eye may not be initially painful, it’s a condition that needs to be addressed. Untreated cherry eye can lead to complications like dry eye and corneal ulcers, which are painful and require more extensive treatment.
How is Cherry Eye Diagnosed in Dogs?
A veterinarian can diagnose cherry eye by examining the dog’s eye. The protruding gland will be visible on the inside corner of the eye. The veterinarian may also perform a fluorescein stain test to check for any corneal ulceration, which can occur due to the dry eye associated with cherry eye.
In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend further testing, such as a blood test or a culture to rule out other underlying causes of eye irritation or inflammation. However, the diagnosis of cherry eye is usually straightforward based on the physical examination.
How is Cherry Eye Treated in Dogs?
Treatment for cherry eye typically involves surgically repositioning the protruding gland back into its proper position. This is done by creating a new pocket for the gland in the socket or by attaching the gland to the surrounding tissues with sutures.
Surgical correction is generally successful in restoring normal function of the third eyelid and preventing complications. However, there is a small risk of the gland prolapsing again, especially in breeds with a strong genetic predisposition to cherry eye.
Can Cherry Eye be Prevented in Dogs?
Unfortunately, cherry eye cannot be prevented entirely, as it is primarily caused by a genetic predisposition in certain breeds. However, you can minimize the risk of cherry eye in your dog by providing proper eye care and avoiding activities that can injure the eyes.
This includes keeping your dog’s eyes clean with a gentle eye wash, avoiding the use of harsh eye drops or ointments, and protecting their eyes from trauma during play or exercise. While you cannot prevent cherry eye completely, taking these preventative measures can help reduce the risk.
What is the Prognosis for Dogs with Cherry Eye?
The prognosis for dogs with cherry eye is generally good with timely and appropriate treatment. Surgical correction is usually successful in restoring normal function of the third eyelid and preventing complications.
However, there is a small risk of the gland prolapsing again, especially in breeds with a strong genetic predisposition to cherry eye. In such cases, repeat surgery may be necessary. Overall, with proper care and management, dogs with cherry eye can live a normal and healthy life.