Cherry Eye in Dogs

Cherry eye in dogs refers to the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. This page looks at the symptoms and causes of cherry eye. The preferred conventional treatment of this dog eye condition is to surgically reposition the gland. Natural remedies such as herbs can be used ost-surgery to support the dog's eye health.

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. If you want to be fancy, cherry eye is medically 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:

American Cocker Spaniel
Bulldog
Beagle
Lhasa Apso
Shar-pei
Shih tzu
Boston Terrier
Bull Terrier
Bloodhound

Causes of Cherry Eye in Dogs

While the exact cause of canine cherry eye is not exactly clear, 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 eye structures. Because of the weakness of the connective tissue, the gland pops out and is dislocated. As a result, the normally hidden-away gland is suddenly exposed to the air and airborne irritants that can cause it to become red, swollen, and infected.

Symptoms of Cherry Eye in Dogs

It is not difficult to see and diagnose this eye condition. If your dog has cherry eye, you can see the following signs and symptoms:

A pink or red mass protruding from the corner of the eye closest to the nose.
Sometimes a mucous discharge from the eye can be seen.
The lining of the eyelid may become red.
Your dog may scratch or rub the affected eye.

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Treatment of Cherry Eye in Dogs

The preferred conventional 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.

According to some holistic veterinarians, if you notice that your dog has cherry eye, it may be possible to treat the problem medically such as the use of herbal eyedrops or herbal remedies if such treatment is given at an early stage. On the other hand, if medical treatment is not given to the dog early on, then surgical repositioning of the gland is the only solution. Therefore, it is advisable to get your dog to a holistic veterinarian the moment you notice that he has cherry eye.

Here is a video that gives a brief explanation of the causes and treatment options of cherry eye in dogs:

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Herbal Remedies for Cherry Eye in Dogs

If your dog's cherry eye has been treated by surgical repositioning of the gland, you can use some herbs to support eye health after the surgery to help speed up recovery.

Some useful herbs include:

Bilberry: This herb contains anthocyanoside flavonoids which have an affinity for the connective tissues in the eye. They provide structural support for the retina, cornea, and other constituents of the eye.
Chrysanthemum: This herb is widely used in China to treat inflammation of the eyes, dry eye, weeping eyes, and blurred vision.
Rehmannia: This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and amino acids. It is also used in Asia to treat inflammation of the eyes.
Lycium fruit: This Chinese herb contains high amounts of b-carotene, amino acids, as well as vitamins B and C. It has long been used in China to support eye health.

Natural Herbal Products for Eye Health

If you would like to support the eye health of your dog, you may want to take a look at these natural herbal products:

Nature's Herbs for Pets Clear Vision for Dogs

This Chinese herbal formula contains a lot of beneficial herbs for the eye, such as chrysanthemum, lycium fruit, and rehmannia. It is effective for many eye conditions such as eye infections and inflammation, dry eye, conjunctivitis, cloudy eyes, etc.

Integrative Therapeutics Bilberry Extract by Tyler for Dogs and Cats

This supplement contains bilberry extract and is beneficial for eye health.