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Cherry Eye in DogsCherry eye in dogs refers to the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. Usual treatment is to surgically reposition the gland.
Dogs have a "third eyelid" that contains a tear gland that helps with the production of tears. It is located in the corner of each eye. Normally, you cannot see this
gland.
Canine cherry eye is an eye condition in which the gland of this third eyelid comes out of its normal position and becomes red and swollen, making it looks like a
cherry - thus the name cherry eye. Medically, cherry eye is known as "nictitans gland prolapse", or prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid.
Canine cherry eye can occur to dogs at any age and it affects males and females equally.
Certain breeds of dogs are predisposed to this eye condition. They include:
Causes of Cherry Eye in DogsWhile the exact cause of canine cherry eye is unknown, it is generally believed that the condition is the result of a weakness of the connective tissue that attaches the gland of the third eyelid to the surrounding structures of the eye. Because of the weakness of the connective tissue, the gland comes out of its normal position and is exposed to the air and airborne irritants that can cause it to be infected. As a result, the gland often becomes irritated, red, and swollen. TopSymptoms of Cherry Eye in DogsIt is not difficult to see and diagnose this eye condition. If your dog has cherry eye, you can see the following signs and symptoms:
Treatment of Cherry Eye in Dogs
The preferred treatment of this eye condition is to surgically reposition the gland. Complete removal of the gland is not advisable because the gland of the third
eyelid is responsible for producing around 35 percent of the watery part of tears. Removing this gland will result in a condition called
dry eye.
Sometimes, topical antibiotics and steroid medications may be used to decrease inflammation of the prolapsed gland. Unfortunately, topical medical treatment are
rarely effective - the gland will not return to a normal position without surgical replacement.
Top
Herbal Remedies for Cherry Eye in DogsWhile herbs cannot be used to treat the condition of canine cherry eye, some herbs can nevertheless be used to support eye health and can be given to your dog after eye surgery to help speed up recovery. Some useful herbs include:
Related Topics Dog Eye Problems Dry Eye in Dogs References R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). PedEducation.com TOP of Cherry Eye in Dogs |
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