The information provided on this web site is for informational purposes only. At no time should any information found on this web site replace the advice of your veterinarian. You should refer to your veterinarian before giving any dosage for the medication listed. Whenever in doubt, seek advice from your veterinarian.

Cherry eye is the term used for the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. It may occur in one or both eyes. The condition is most common in young dogs, six weeks to two years of age.

A weakness of the ligamentous attachment of the gland of the third eyelid is believed to be the most common cause in the dog. The inheritance pattern is unknown and it's been unproven whether or not this is a heritable condition or not.

You should watch for oval pink or red mass protruding from the corner of the eye closest to the nose, watery or thick discharge from the eye, or redness to the lining of the eyelid. Although pawing of the eye is another sign, it can be difficult to determine the reason for the pawing in early stages. Not all eye pawing should be considered an early sign of cherry eye.

If you believe your bulldog has cherry eye, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Treatment
Surgical replacement of the gland is the recommended treatment. Complete removal of the gland may be performed, but it is discouraged because it predisposes the dog to a life of dry eye.