Dealing with Cherry Eye in Dogs: Effective Solutions

Cherry eye, a common eye condition in dogs, is characterized by the protrusion of red, bulging bumps inside the eye. This makes it relatively easy for owners to notice when their dogs develop cherry eye. But what causes this condition, and what should be done if it occurs? This article aims to shed light on these questions and provide a clearer, more precise, and engaging explanation.

What Causes Dogs to Develop Cherry Eye?

Cherry eye in dogs is typically caused by inflammation or trauma to the eye, but there are several other factors that can contribute to its development. Possible causes include:

1. Genetic Factors: Some dog breeds, such as Bichon Frise, Pomeranian, and Chihuahua, are more prone to cherry eye due to a congenital abnormality in the connective tissue around the eye socket. This can lead to a loose structure below the gland base, causing the gland to prolapse outwards.

2. Gland Swelling: Inflammation and swelling of the gland are common causes of cherry eye, as the gland becomes swollen and protrudes beyond the edge of the third eyelid.

Other factors that may lead to cherry eye include bacterial infections, hyperactivity, intense eye rubbing, eye injuries, or tumors.

Symptoms of Cherry Eye in Dogs

In the early stages, affected dogs often exhibit excessive tearing and the appearance of a pink, soft tissue lump in the inner corner of one or both eyes. If eye drops are administered, the inflammation may subside, and the soft tissue lump may shrink back into the eye. However, in most cases, the lump only reduces in size slightly and does not fully recede. If the condition does not improve, surgical intervention may be necessary. Without surgery, the chronic prolapse of the gland can not only affect the dog's appearance but also lead to inflammation. Dogs may also scratch at their eyes, worsening the condition. The goal of surgery is to restore the prolapsed gland to within the eyelid, preserving the gland's tissue and ducts, and maintaining the flexibility of the eyelid.

There are two surgical methods for treating cherry eye: the third eyelid gland excision and the burying technique. The third eyelid gland excision is a traditional treatment that effectively addresses the prolapse of the gland, but it can lead to dry eye syndrome in some cases. The burying technique can reduce the likelihood of dry eye syndrome later on.

Cherry eye surgery is a routine procedure, typically taking about 20 minutes and costing a few hundred dollars. Postoperative care is relatively simple, involving following the vet's instructions for eye drops and wearing a head collar. If you notice signs of cherry eye in your dog, it's best to seek veterinary treatment promptly to prevent further complications, such as vision loss or more severe eye diseases.

This concludes our discussion on the causes and treatment of cherry eye in dogs. We hope this information helps you better understand this condition. If your dog is diagnosed with cherry eye, remember that timely veterinary care is key to managing the condition effectively.