Cherry eye in dogs

Cherry eye is a condition in dogs where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses (moves out of its normal position) and becomes visible as a red, swollen mass in the inner corner of the eye. Although it can look alarming, it’s a well-recognised and treatable condition in veterinary practice.

Treatment is usually recommended, particularly in younger dogs, and often involves surgical correction. Dog insurance may help cover eligible costs such as consultations, diagnostics, surgery, medication and follow-up care, depending on the level of cover and policy terms, and provided the condition is not pre-existing.

What is cherry eye?

Cherry eye is the common term for prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid (nictitating membrane).

Dogs have three eyelids:

• Upper eyelid
• Lower eyelid
• Third eyelid (nictitating membrane), which helps protect the eye and contributes to tear production and ocular health

A tear-producing gland sits within the third eyelid and is normally held in place by connective tissue. If these supportive structures weaken or fail, the gland can flip forward and become visible as a red or pink fleshy mass in the inner corner of the eye.

Causes of cherry eye

The exact cause of cherry eye in dogs isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to be associated with a weakness or failure of the connective tissue that anchors the gland in place.

Likely contributing factors include:

• Genetic predisposition (it’s more common in some breeds than others)
• Developmental differences in eyelid and facial anatomy
• Tissue laxity (loose or weak connective tissue), particularly in young dogs
• Less commonly, secondary inflammation in the surrounding eye structures

Cherry eye is generally considered a multifactorial condition (caused by several factors), with a strong hereditary component in predisposed breeds.

Commonly affected breeds

Cherry eye can occur in any dog, but it’s more common in certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic breeds and some spaniel and mastiff-type breeds.

Some common breeds that are more frequently affected include:

• English Bulldog
• French Bulldog
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Cocker Spaniel
• Beagle
• Shih Tzu
• Pug
• Bloodhound
• Mastiffs (especially Neapolitan Mastiff)
• Crossbreeds and mixed breeds can also be affected.

Types of cherry eye

Cherry eye is typically described by whether one or both eyes are affected.

Symptoms of cherry eye

The most characteristic sign is a visible red or pink swelling in the inner corner of the eye.

Other signs may include:

• Redness of the eye (conjunctival inflammation)
• Increased tear production
• Watery or sticky discharge
• Squinting or excessive blinking
• Pawing or rubbing at the eye
• Signs of discomfort or irritation

If untreated, secondary conditions such as conjunctivitis or corneal irritation/ulceration may develop.

What to do if your dog shows signs of cherry eye

If you notice a red swelling in your dog’s eye, arrange a veterinary appointment promptly. Although cherry eye is often straightforward for vets to identify, other eye conditions can appear similar and should be ruled out. Don’t attempt to reposition the gland yourself, as this may worsen irritation or cause injury.

Before your appointment, try to prevent your dog from rubbing or pawing at the eye - a protective collar may help if needed. If there’s any discharge, gently keep the area clean and monitor for any changes such as worsening redness, signs of pain, or changes in behaviour.

Seek urgent veterinary advice if you notice significant discomfort, cloudiness of the eye, or any possible change in vision.

What age could you expect cherry eye in your dog?

Cherry eye most commonly develops in young dogs, typically under 2 years of age. It’s frequently seen in puppies and adolescent dogs, supporting a developmental and genetic component. However, it can occasionally occur in older dogs.

How to manage cherry eye

Cherry eye should always be checked by a vet, and ongoing management will depend on how severe it is and whether it comes back.

In many cases, this includes following any prescribed treatment plan closely, preventing your dog from rubbing or scratching at the eye, and attending all follow-up appointments. It’s also important to keep an eye out for any signs of recurrence, even after surgery.

If surgery is needed, careful post-operative care plays a big role in recovery, helping to reduce inflammation and support healing. In some cases, the condition can return, depending on tissue strength and how well the area heals after treatment.

Does pet insurance cover cherry eye?

Pet insurance may cover cherry eye if it develops after your policy has started and is not classed as a pre-existing condition. Depending on the policy, it may help with costs such as vet consultations, diagnostic tests, prescription medication and surgery.

It’s also worth noting that cherry eye is often treated as a bilateral condition, meaning it can affect both eyes. If your dog develops it in one eye before your cover begins, any later occurrence in the other eye may also be treated as pre-existing and excluded from cover.

Always check your policy terms, including limits, exclusions and waiting periods, so you know exactly what’s included.

Cherry eye treatment options

Treatment for cherry eye depends on how severe it is, how uncomfortable your dog is, and the risk of complications. In mild or early cases, a vet may suggest short-term monitoring along with anti-inflammatory treatment, although this won’t correct the underlying prolapse.

In terms of medical management, vets may prescribe anti-inflammatory eye medication to help reduce swelling, along with lubricating eye drops to protect the surface of the eye. However, medication on its own is usually not a permanent fix.

Surgery is the most common definitive treatment, with the aim of repositioning and securing the gland back into its normal place. Modern veterinary practice focuses on preserving the gland where possible, as it plays an important role in tear production. Removal is generally avoided unless absolutely necessary, due to the increased risk of long-term dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca / KCS).

Even after successful surgery, there’s still a chance of recurrence, and further treatment may occasionally be needed.

When to speak to a vet about cherry eye

Contact your vet promptly if you notice:

• A red or pink lump in the corner of the eye
• Persistent redness or swelling
• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Squinting or signs of pain
• Rubbing or pawing at the eye
• Cloudiness or any change in vision

Eye conditions can progress quickly, and early treatment generally improves outcomes and reduces the risk of any complications.