10 Things Every Dog Owner Should Know About Cherry Eye

Ever noticed your dog looking at you with what seems like a little red bump in their eye? That’s not just your pup throwing some dramatic flair into their day—it could be cherry eye. This common condition can look alarming but isn’t as scary as it seems. Here are ten things every dog owner should know to keep their pet at bay from the cherry eye.

Understanding The Third Eyelid

The third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane, isn’t just a backup feature. It shields a dog’s eye and produces vital lubrication through a tear gland. If this gland shifts out of place, the cherry eye develops. Think of it as your dog’s built-in visor that goes awry, creating that noticeable red bulge.

Recognizing Cherry Eye

Cherry eye looks like a bright red mass near the inner corner of your dog’s eye. While it may seem alarming, it’s usually painless at first. However, ignoring it can lead to chronic irritation or secondary infections that worsen over time.

Breeds With A Higher Risk

Some breeds are highly prone to cherry eye due to weaker connective tissues. Bulldogs, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels top the list. Surprisingly, the genetic factor makes this condition more common in these breeds. If your breed is predisposed, regular eye checks can catch it early before complications arise.

Typical Age Of Onset

Dogs younger than two years old are more likely to develop a cherry eye. Juvenile connective tissues don’t always hold the tear gland in place, leading to the condition. Hence, early detection is critical since young dogs may recover better with timely intervention.

What Causes Cherry Eye?

Most experts point to weak connective tissue as the primary issue behind the cherry eye, with genetics playing a major role in its development. In dogs predisposed to this condition, factors like trauma might act as triggers for the gland’s prolapse, though they are not considered the underlying cause.

Why Early Detection Matters?

Catching cherry eye early can save your dog from unnecessary discomfort. Left untreated, it may cause chronic inflammation or even vision problems. Watch for redness, swelling, or excessive pawing at the eye. Plus, a quick veterinary visit can provide the answers and relief to your dog’s needs.

Treatment Options Available

Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for cherry eye. The goal isn’t to remove the gland but to reposition it securely. This ensures proper tear production and prevents dry eye issues later. Non-surgical methods rarely succeed, so don’t delay seeking expert advice.

Why Is Gland Removal Discouraged?

Removing the prolapsed tear gland might seem like an easy fix, but it comes with certain risks. Without this gland, dogs often develop dry eye syndrome, which requires lifelong medication. Think of the gland as essential plumbing for tear production—it’s better to repair than to remove the source altogether.

Post-Surgical Care Essentials

After surgery, your dog needs extra attention. Administer prescribed medications, such as anti-inflammatory eye drops, and prevent your pet from scratching their eye with an e-collar. Furthermore, follow-up appointments are key to monitoring healing.

Keeping Cherry Eye At Bay

While you can’t fully prevent cherry eye, regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs. Keep your dog’s eyes clean and free of irritants. For breeds with genetic risks, closely monitoring eye health is essential. Hence, an informed, proactive approach keeps your pet comfortable and healthy in the long run.