Cherry Eye in Dogs: A Simple Guide to a Common Condition

Cherry eye in dogs can look a bit startling, but don't worry—it's more common than you think. Just like us, our furry friends have three eyelids. Sometimes, a tiny gland in their third eyelid can get stuck and swell up like a little, red cherry. This tends to happen more with dogs that have lots of loose skin around their eyes or shallower eye sockets, especially when they’re under a year old.

What Is Cherry Eye?

I had a chat with Dr. Kelly Hood, a friendly vet who loves helping pet owners, to understand this condition better. Dr. Hood explained, “Cherry eye is when a gland in the third eyelid pops out and makes the eye look red and puffy, like a cherry.” It can be pretty uncomfortable for your dog, so it's important to keep an eye out for it.

Spotting the Signs

• Look for a bright red, swollen bump in the lower corner of your dog’s eye.
• Notice if your dog is tearing up a lot, squinting, or seems bothered by their eye.

If this happens, take your pup to the vet to make sure it's cherry eye and not something else that could cause more problems.

Why Is Treatment Important?

If you ignore cherry eye, it can lead to other issues like eye infections that might hurt your dog's vision. Your dog needs the tears from this gland, and without treatment, they might end up with dry eyes or worse, vision loss.

How Is Cherry Eye Treated?

Dr. Hood shares, “The best way to fix cherry eye is usually through surgery to pop that gland back where it belongs. It's a straightforward procedure with general anesthesia.” In less severe cases, vets might try eye drops or temporary stitches first, but surgery is the most reliable solution.

Understanding the Causes

While we're not entirely sure why some dogs get cherry eye and others don’t, it seems to be linked to weaker tissue around the eye. Breeds like Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Beagles are more likely to have this issue, especially if they have shallow eye sockets.

Take Action

Whenever you notice something unusual with your dog's eyes, play it safe and see your vet. Even though cherry eye is usually not dangerous by itself, if left untreated, it can lead to problems that could affect your dog’s vision and overall happiness.

Show Your Love

Remember, taking care of your pet’s health is one of the many ways you show them love. If you’re considering getting a pet, know that adopting brings endless joy and a bond like no other. Keep an eye on your furry friend’s health, and enjoy every little moment with them!

If you'd like more tips about caring for your dog’s eyes or want to explore pet insurance options, look into pet care resources available to keep your buddy healthy and happy.