What Causes Cherry Eyes in Dogs: Understanding the Facts and Treatment Options As Well
It’s critical for dog owners to comprehend the numerous health issues that might impact their four-legged buddy. Cherry eye is one of these ailments, which can be upsetting for your dog and unsettling for you as the owner. This article will examine the specific causes of cherry eye in dogs, as well as the signs to look out for and potential treatments.
What is Cherry Eye?
Dogs of all breeds and ages can get cherry eye, commonly known as a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid. It happens when the dog’s tear gland, which is situated in the third eyelid, swells up and protrudes from the corner of the eye. The name of the ailment comes from the gland’s vivid red color, which might resemble a cherry.
What Causes Cherry Eye in Dogs?
Cherry eye is thought to be caused by weakened connective tissue that maintains the gland in place; however the specific origin is unknown. Breeds including Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and Beagles are more likely than other breeds to acquire cherry eye than other breeds.
Additional elements that may have a role in cherry eye development include:
Genetics
If your dog has a family history of cherry eye, they may be more likely to develop the condition.
Age
Cherry eye is more common in young dogs under the age of two, but can occur in dogs of any age.
Trauma
In some cases, trauma to the eye area can cause the gland to become displaced.
Infection
Infections in the eye area can cause inflammation, which can lead to cherry eye.
Symptoms of Cherry Eye in Dogs
The most obvious symptom of cherry eye is the visible red mass in the corner of your dog’s eye. However, there are several other symptoms to watch out for, including:
Excessive Tearing
Cherry eye can cause your dog’s eye to produce excess tears, which can lead to tear stains on the fur around the eye.
Eye Discharge
If the cherry eye becomes infected, it may produce a yellow or green discharge.
Irritation
Cherry eye can cause your dog’s eye to become irritated and itchy, leading to pawing or scratching at the eye.
Swelling
In some cases, cherry eye can cause swelling and inflammation around the eye.
Treatment Options for Cherry Eye in Dogs
If your dog develops cherry eye, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Left untreated, the condition can cause discomfort, irritation, and even vision loss.
There are several treatment options available for cherry eye, including:
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and shrink the gland. However, this treatment option is typically only effective in mild cases of cherry eye.
Surgery
Surgery is often the most effective treatment option for cherry eye. During the procedure, the prolapsed gland is re-positioned and sutured back into place. While there is a risk of recurrence, surgery has a high success rate.
Watchful Waiting
In some cases, your vet may recommend a wait-and-see approach. While this may be appropriate for mild cases, it’s important to monitor the condition closely to ensure it doesn’t worsen.
At the End:
Dogs of various breeds and ages can develop cherry eye, a disorder brought on by weak connective tissue that holds the gland in place. As a result, the gland becomes inflamed or enlarged and protrudes from the corner of the eye, giving the appearance of a bright red lump that resembles a cherry. Breeds including Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and Beagles are more likely than other breeds to acquire cherry eye than other breeds. In addition, cherry eye in dogs can be influenced by genetics, ageing, trauma, and infections. Cherry eye symptoms include copious tears, discharge from the eyes, discomfort, and edoema.
If your dog develops cherry eye, it’s crucial to get them to the doctor right once since, if ignored, the disease can lead to pain, itchiness, and possibly vision loss. Cherry eye can be treated with medication, surgery, or cautious waiting. The most effective method is often surgery, which has a high success rate but a chance of recurrence. Most dogs who receive the right care are able to totally recover from cherry eye and go on to have happy, healthy lives. To preserve the long-term health and wellness of their furry friends, pet owners should keep informed about this ailment and take preventative measures to care for their animals.