At Summit Dog and Cat Hospital, we offer many services to help your pet maintain a healthy lifestyle. Our facility offers preventative care, urgent care, and emergency care. With a wellness examination, our veterinarians can determine your pet’s current health status, diagnose potential problems, and design a custom treatment plan.
Eye Care
As part of a comprehensive wellness exam, your pet’s eyes are also checked. Eye care is important for pets of all ages, whether they are indoor or outdoor furry friends. Having your pet’s eyes examined allows the vet to diagnose any potential problems.
If your pet is experiencing symptoms of eye irritation, such as redness, inflammation, watering, or discharge, or you notice a pink cherry-like protrusion at the inside corner of its eye, your pet may be suffering from a condition known as “cherry eye.” Cherry eye is most prevalent in canines, but felines can also experience the problem.
About Cherry Eye
Cherry eye affects the third eyelid, which is an additional protective layer for the eye. The third eyelid is located inside the pet’s lower lid. It is especially helpful when a pet is hunting or in the event it is in a fight. The third eyelid serves as an important part of the protective tear film, which is produced by a gland inside the third eyelid. The condition results when the third eyelid gland pops out (prolapses) at the lower inside corner of the eye. The size of the pink mass varies. It may be small or large enough to cover the majority of the cornea.
Causes of Cherry Eye
Cherry eye, while a common ailment, is generally found in specific dog breeds. These include the Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, English Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Bloodhound, Pug, Beagle, and Lhasa Apso. The most affected felines are the Persians and Burmese. What these breeds have in common is a “flat face.”
The third eyelid gland attaches to the inner eye rim. In affected canine and feline breeds, the attachment is not as strong as it is in other breeds, resulting in a prolapse (protrusion). If your pet has this condition, it is important to schedule an examination as soon as possible to determine the best plan of action for treatment and relief.
xContact Our Animal Hospital in Summit, NJ
When your pet is experiencing cherry eye and needs help, contact Summit Dog and Cat Hospital so our veterinarians can provide your pet with the proper treatment that provides relief for your furry family member. We are proud to serve Summit, Short Hills, Millburn, Livingston, Edison, Chatham, Madison, Union, Westfield, Springfield, NJ and the surrounding areas. Call our team today at (908) 273-2200 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
Summit Dog & Cat Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your visit.
What is cherry eye in pets?
Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland inside a pet’s third eyelid moves out of position. It usually appears as a round pink or red swelling in the inner corner of the eye.
What are the signs of cherry eye in dogs?
Cherry eye in dogs may cause a visible pink mass, redness, inflammation, watering, or eye discharge. Schedule a veterinary examination promptly to prevent further irritation and determine the right treatment.
What does dog cherry eye treatment involve?
Dog cherry eye treatment depends on the gland’s condition and the level of irritation. Persistent or recurring cases commonly require surgery to reposition and preserve the third eyelid gland rather than remove it.
Can cherry eye develop in cats?
Yes, cherry eye in cats is less common but can still occur. Persian and Burmese cats may be more likely to develop this condition. Any unusual swelling near a cat’s eye should be examined by a veterinarian.
What happens during cherry eye surgery?
During cherry eye surgery, the veterinarian places the prolapsed gland back into a more natural position and secures it. This cherry eye in dogs treatment helps preserve tear production and lowers the risk of future dry eye problems.