Cherry Eye: Your Go-To Guide

Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue
May 28
4 min read

If you've ever noticed a small, red, bulging lump in the bottom corner of your dog’s eye, it can be a little alarming. That “cherry-like” protrusion is actually a condition known as cherry eye.

Cherry eye is a common, treatable issue that affects a dog's third eyelid. We regularly see dogs on at-risk lists in shelters because of cherry eye, which is heartbreaking because it’s not a life-threatening issue.

Here’s the scoop on what cherry eye is, how it happens, and how it’s treated.

What Is Cherry Eye?

According to VCA, cherry eye is a condition where the gland of the third eyelid pops out of place. This gland is an extra protective layer for your dog’s eye and produces a significant amount of your dog’s tear film.

It looks like a red, swollen lump (like a cherry) on your dog’s lower eyelid.

What Is the Prognosis for Cherry Eye?

The prognosis is good! With surgical intervention, most dog’s glands return to normal within a few weeks.

How Common Is Cherry Eye?

As a rescue, we feel like we see dogs in shelters with cherry eye rather frequently. However, it’s actually not super prevalent.

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) found that only .2% of dogs in the U.K. have cherry eye. We couldn’t find any similar studies for dogs in the U.S.

Learn More: Common Health Ailments Your Shelter Dog May Come Home With

What Dogs Are Most at Risk of Cherry Eye?

Young dogs and certain breeds are more prone to cherry eye. The average age of diagnosis in most dogs in the U.K. is .6 years.

In terms of breeds, Brachycephalic dogs had a 6.9 times higher risk of developing cherry eye. Also, certain breeds tend to get cherry eye more frequently.

When it comes to specific breeds and mixes, according to the RVC study, rates of cherry eye were the highest in the following dogs:

1.2% of Jack Russel Terrier/Pug mixes
1.5% of American Cocker Spaniels
1.6% of Lhasa Apsos
2.1% of Puggles
4.8% of English Bulldogs
4.9% of Neapolitan Mastiffs

Furthermore, Great Danes are 6.2 times more likely to be diagnosed, and Saint Bernards are 5.3 times more likely to get cherry eye.

How Is Cherry Eye Diagnosed?

You’ll likely be the first one to notice cherry eye in your dog because you’ll see a red lump in the bottom corner of their eye near their muzzle, prompting a visit to the vet.

Your vet will be able to confirm the diagnosis with a quick exam. They may also want to do additional tests to establish your dog’s overall eye health.

Learn More: How To Choose a Veterinarian

How Do Dogs Get Cherry Eye?

Cherry eye is a hereditary trait. While certain breeds are more prone to cherry eye, it is possible for any dog to develop the condition.

What Are the Symptoms of Cherry Eye?

You may see the following symptoms of cherry eye if your dog has it:

A red or pink bulge near the inside corner of the eye
Eye discharge
Eye inflammation and redness
Pawing at or rubbing their eye

Cherry eye is usually not painful, but secondary issues can cause your dog discomfort.

What Health Issues Can Cherry Eye Cause?

If not addressed, cherry eye can lead to:

Additional inflammation
Chronic dry eye
Conjunctivitis
Corneal ulcers and injury
Vision impairment and blindness

It’s important to treat cherry eye to ensure your dog’s vision is not impacted.

How Is Cherry Eye Treated?

Surgery is needed to treat cherry eye. It involves replacing the third eyelid gland and should be done quickly to minimize damage.

After surgery, your vet will likely give you topical eye antibiotic drops to prevent infection. Anti-inflammatories may also be prescribed to help minimize your dog’s pain,

In addition, an Elizabethan collar should be used to keep your dog from scratching their eye during recovery.

Learn More: Eye Infections in Dogs

How Much Does Cherry Eye Surgery Cost?

MetLife reports that, on average, cherry eye surgery can cost between $300 and $1,900. The cost varies greatly depending on vet appointments, diagnostics, anesthesia, medications, and more.

How Long Does Cherry Eye Last?

Cherry eye will last until it’s treated. The gland should return to normal within a few weeks of surgery.

However, up to 20% of pups with the condition may experience a re-prolapse, necessitating another surgery. It’s also more likely for a dog who has cherry eye in one eye to experience the same issue in their other eye.

Is Cherry Eye Deadly?

Nope! While cherry eye isn’t life-threatening, it does require attention. Leaving it untreated can lead to long-term eye problems.

Is Cherry Eye Contagious To Other Dogs?

No! Cherry eye isn’t contagious. It’s not an infectious disease, so you don’t have to worry about your dog getting it from other dogs.

Is Cherry Eye Contagious To People?

Definitely not. Cherry eye doesn’t pose any risk to humans.

How Can I Protect My Dog From Getting Cherry Eye?

Unfortunately, there’s no definitive way to prevent your dog from getting cherry eye. However, it's highly advisable to have vet evaluate your dog at the first sign of eye issues to keep inflammation under control.

Final Thoughts

Cherry eye might look concerning, but it’s a common and treatable condition. With a little knowledge and the help of your vet, your pup’s eye will be back to normal in no time.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended as professional medical advice. It is based on personal experience and online research. Please consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog's health.