Prolapsed Third Eyelid (Cherry Eye) in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment
📝 Summary
A protruding third eyelid is really a prolapsed nictitans gland, also called 'cherry eye.' The gland grows larger than the third eyelid and bulges out. The exact cause is unclear - possibly weak tissue between the gland base and orbit, local irritation, or genetics.
1 Symptoms and Treatment
I. Symptoms
One or both eyes show a red, swollen soft mass bulging from the eye. Long exposure makes the gland congested, swollen, and teary, and if unchecked it can rupture. The dog often rubs the eye with its paw. Any breed can be affected, but it is more common in Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Pekingese, Beagles, and Boston Terriers; cats are rare.
II. Treatment
Surgery uses general anesthesia with local anesthesia on the eye. Two methods exist: excising the overgrown tissue, or tucking it back in; most cases use excision. The risk is low, but removing the growth also removes part of the tear gland, so dry eye can follow. The second method is harder and longer, with more risk; the condition can recur even after removal in one or both eyes.
For any surgery needing anesthesia, fasting 6 to 8 hours and no water 2 hours before is vital. Awake, gut motion pushes food back for absorption; under anesthesia the gut slows, and without fasting, food can flow back into the trachea and lungs, causing breathing trouble or aspiration pneumonia. Do not over-restrict water, or dehydration harms the animal.
Tip: Have a prolapsed gland checked by a vet promptly to protect your dog’s tear production.
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