Dog - Cherry Eye

Introduction

Cherry eye is the popular and apt name given to a condition that can affect the third eyelids of many breeds of young dogs.

The third eyelid or nictitating membrane is a fold of conjunctiva supported by a T-shaped cartilage. It normally rests at the inner corner (medial canthus) of the eye and moves across the cornea, (the clear part of the eye) when the upper and lower eyelids are closed. It serves as an extra means of protection for the eye and functions similar to a windscreen wiper.

On the inner surface (that facing the eyeball) of the third eyelid there is an important gland involved with tear production. It is the prolapse (displacement) of this gland which results in so-called 'cherry eye'. The whole of the third eyelid appears swollen, often with the meaty looking gland appearing beyond the edge and partially covering the cornea. It looks like a bright red cherry.

The cause of the problem is unknown but the conformation (shape) of the dog is significant since it is more common in the flat faced (brachycephalic) breeds with prominent eyes.

Can it occur in any breed?

It can occur in any breed but it is seen more frequently in Bulldogs, Boxers, American Cocker Spaniels, Lhasa Apsos and hounds such as Bassets. It is also quite common in giant breeds such as Great Danes and Neopolitan Mastiffs.

What symptoms should I look for?

There may be no definite signs apart from the meaty mass protruding from the inner corner of the eye. Sometimes a watery discharge accompanies the swelling.

Is it painful?

In the majority of dogs the condition does not appear to cause any discomfort. Young puppies occasionally find the mass irritating and can damage the protruding gland by pawing or rubbing the face on the ground.

Can anything else cause similar swelling?

Diagnosis is usually straightforward in young puppies. In older dogs further investigation may be necessary since it is possible that the mass may be due to a rapidly growing tumour.

Can the other eye be affected?

In the susceptible breeds it is not uncommon for the condition to occur first in one eye and then in the other. Occasionally it can occur in both eyes at the same time.

What does treatment involve?

The application of anti-inflammatory preparations (drops or ointment) to the eye sometimes reduces the amount of swelling of the protruding gland but this is seldom permanent. In the majority of cases surgery has to be performed to return the protruding tissue to its normal location. This is specialised surgery and your dog may be referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Are there any complications?

Occasionally the surgery needs to be repeated, especially if the gland is very large. Removal of the gland is only performed as a last resort. This is because the gland has an important function concerned with protection and lubrication of the eye via the tears it produces. If removal is inevitable there is always the possibility that dry eye, (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca – KCS) may develop due to insufficient production of tears. This condition may require ongoing treatment.