Cherry eye in dogs, officially know as “prolapse of the third eyelid gland” is a condition affecting many dogs, usually early in life. Certain breeds such as the French and English Bulldog, Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu are more predisposed to this eye condition; however, any dog can develop cherry eye.
The appearance of the cherry eye is very characteristic and, as the name implies, a small lump, resembling in appearance a small cherry, becomes obvious at the middle corner of the eye(s). The problem can develop in one eye or both eyes, but it won’t always affect both eyes at the same time and, in some cases, it can be weeks or months before the gland in the second eye “pops out”.
Understanding cherry eye
What we refer to as “cherry eye” is actually the gland of the third eyelid which, normally, should be hidden under the third eyelid (in its normal position). The exact reason that this eye condition develops, and the third eyelid gland becomes prolapsed is not known but a hereditary predisposition is suspected in dogs.
The third eyelid gland is responsible for part of the normal tear production of the eye; therefore, it is a very important structure of the eye that has to be replaced to its normal position. This is done via a surgical procedure called “pocketing” technique. Maintaining the third eyelid aims to prevent deterioration of your dog’s eye conditions and tear production early in life.
Can I walk my dog with cherry eye?
Walking your dog when the cherry eye is prolapsed is perfectly normal and appropriate. However, care must be taken that your dog won’t scratch the eye or that they won’t go through areas with excessive dirt, mud or thick plantation (bushes, hedges and long grass) as this can cause irritation and inflammation to the gland.
When the gland becomes inflamed, it will appear redder, and discharge can occasionally be seen around the eye. To avoid irritation in your dog’s eye, ensure that you walk them on a clean, paved area when the third eyelid gland is prolapsed.
How long does a cherry eye last?
At the initial stages of the cherry eye, you might be able to manipulate the gland back in its normal position (behind the third eyelid) by gently massaging the gland and the eye. However, as the weeks go by this is unlikely to be successful and the gland will be permanently prolapsed.
The permanent prolapse can lead to irritation of your dog’s eye and inflammation of the gland. In addition, the longer the gland is left prolapse, the more likely it is to become damaged, ulcerated and start to bleed. We strongly recommend surgery to replace the gland in its normal position, which has a very high success rate and good outcome, as part of your pets ongoing care.
If your pet experiences one or more of the symptoms above, we are here for you. Request an appointment and get in touch with one of our specialised ophthalmologists.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can walking worsen the prolapse or cause additional eye damage in dogs with cherry eye?
Walking your dog when the third eyelid gland (cherry eye) is prolapsed is generally considered OK. However, as the gland can be prone to inflammation when it comes in contact with long grass or foreign bodies, you should keep your dog in a clean path and avoid places with thick plantation, swimming in lakes or letting them to roam off the lead in places with significant amount of dirt/mud.
2. What precautions should I take when walking a dog recovering from cherry eye surgery?
We would recommend following your vet’s advice when it comes to the post-operative treatment. The most important key factors are to keep the buster collar on at all times during the recovery period, even when out for walks, and maintain them on a lead on a clean path. Limiting the amount of pressure and pulling around the neck is also encouraged.