Cherry Eye in Dogs
Cherry Eye in Dogs: Introduction
A boxer mix with cherry eye
Photo: Emily Fromm
Jane McGrath
Cherry eye is the appearance of a bulging red bump in the inner corner of a dog's eye.
The bulge is an inflamed tear gland housed in the dog's nictitating membrane, which is often called a third eyelid and is usually not visible.
When the ligament in the third eyelid is weak, the tear gland can prolapse or pop out, creating the red bulge that gives cherry eye its name.
Smaller breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Boston Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Bulldogs, Pekingese and Beagles, are especially prone to the condition.
What to Do if Your Dog Has Cherry Eye
Although it might look serious, cherry eye doesn't require an emergency trip to the veterinary hospital. Often, the swelling isn't painful and dies down on its own within a few days, but cherry eye tends to come back, 'and the gland may eventually pop out permanently. And because it obstructs a dog's vision and is generally uncomfortable, you should take your dog to the vet soon. There's not much you can do to remedy cherry eye on your own.
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