It is ultimately your decision whether to have your dog’s cherry eye removed or not. Cherry eye is a common eye condition more typically found in young dogs, while older dogs rarely develop it. This condition occurs when the gland of the 3rd eyelid, which is located in the corner of the eye near the nose, becomes enlarged or prolapsed, or “pops out of place”.
Thus, sometimes it is referred to as a prolapsed gland of the 3rd eyelid. Cherry eye can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort in the affected eye and if left untreated, could lead to further eye problems.
The surgical option to repair cherry eye involves either tacking or re-positioning the gland through an incision. In many cases, a vet can complete the surgery in a single visit, using local anesthesia.
The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes and recovery time for your pet is usually about 10 days before the eye returns to normal.
When it comes to whether or not you should have your dog’s cherry eye removed, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and to consider the potential risks that come with the surgery. If the condition is causing discomfort to your dog, then surgery may be the best option.
However, if your vet does not feel that the condition warrants surgical intervention, there are alternatives. For example, you could look into using drops and ointments that may help reduce redness and swelling, or increasing your pet’s exercise and playtime.
If you decide to pursue the surgical option, make sure to commit to post-surgical care, including follow-up visits with your veterinarian.
Table of Contents
Is it OK to leave cherry eye untreated?
No, it is not OK to leave cherry eye untreated. Cherry eye is a condition that affects the tear gland of a dog’s eye, causing it to swell and become visible. If left untreated, the condition could potentially lead to further complications, including inflammation, infection, damage to the tear gland, and scarring of the eyelids.
In some cases, if the condition is not managed properly, it can also cause vision loss. Treatment for cherry eye usually involves surgery, which can be done under general anesthesia to correct the affected gland, allowing the eye to return to a natural, healthy state.
Is it better to remove cherry eye?
Yes, it is generally recommended that cherry eye be removed. Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland prolapses, which can be an uncomfortable or even painful condition for your pet. Removal of the prolapsed gland is the most effective treatment and can help prevent further irritation or infection, improve vision, and prevent future recurrence of the condition.
Surgery typically involves repositioning the gland and suturing it into place, and it is usually relatively quick and straightforward. Recovery times vary depending on the specific situation, but most pets make a full recovery without complications.
Overall, the procedure is considered safe and effective, and your pet should experience the benefits of permanently removing the cherry eye.
What happens if you dont fix cherry eye?
If you don’t fix Cherry Eye, your dog will experience ongoing pain and potential discomfort. The swelling of the 3rd eyelid can cause irritation, dry eyes due to the obstruction of airflow, and a reduction in tear production.
This can then lead to secondary infections, ulcers, glaucoma, and extreme discomfort for your dog. It is recommended that you consult your vet as soon as possible to discuss the treatment options available to your pet.
Can a dog live with cherry eye?
Yes, a dog can live with Cherry Eye. Cherry Eye is the common name for a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid, which can occur in some dog breeds. The third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, is a thin layer of tissue that helps keep the eye moist and free of debris.
In some cases, the gland in the third eyelid can become enlarged and protrude from the corner of the dog’s eye. It can look like a pink or red bulge at the base of the eye, resembling a cherry.
Fortunately, this condition is treatable. While it can be uncomfortable and unsightly, it usually is not painful for the dog and does not cause any vision issues. Treatment involves surgery to push the gland back into place.
It is recommended to seek veterinary attention at the first sign of Cherry Eye to help ensure a prompt and successful treatment.
After treatment, a dog can continue to live a long and healthy life with Cherry Eye. Proper aftercare is important and may involve protecting the eye from further irritation, cleaning the affected area, and using prescribed medications or eye drops.
Following your veterinarian’s instructions may help your dog make a full recovery.
How much does a vet charge to fix cherry eye?
The cost of fixing cherry eye depends on the complexity of the procedure needed and the veterinarian performing the procedure. Generally, more complex procedures are more expensive than simpler ones.
The cost also depends on the type of anesthetic used and the length of surgery. Generally, the cost of fixing cherry eye can range from $250 – $1,000, depending on the individual case and the veterinarian.
In some cases, the cost may be covered by pet insurance if the pet is insured. If you are concerned about the cost, it is best to talk to the veterinarian to get an estimate before committing to the procedure.
Can I push my dog’s cherry eye back in?
No, you should not try to push your dog’s cherry eye back in. Cherry eye is a condition in which the inner eyelid, called the third eyelid, protrudes from the eye. If left untreated, cherry eye can cause significant discomfort and pain, as well as potentially leading to infection and visual impairment.
For this reason, it is important to visit a veterinarian who will be able to properly diagnose and treat the condition. The most common treatment for cherry eye is surgery, and the outcome is generally excellent with proper treatment.
Your vet may decide to use medication or other treatments prior to or in addition to surgery. Depending on your pet’s individual case, your vet may also recommend leaving the condition untreated. While it can be tempting to try to push the nictitating membrane back in, this can be very dangerous and damaging to the eye, potentially leading to even worse conditions.
If your pet is showing signs of cherry eye, it is important to contact a vet immediately.
How do you treat cherry eye in dogs without surgery?
Treating cherry eye in dogs without surgery is possible in some cases, although it usually requires a combination of different methods, particularly when it comes to making sure the damaged tear duct doesn’t reoccur.
Depending on the severity of the condition, there are a few techniques which can be used to treat cherry eye without surgery.
The first step is often to use an ointment to lubricate the eye and reduce any discomfort it may cause. This can also help to reduce any inflammation. The ointment may need to be applied several times a day, and have regular breaks to allow the eye rest.
Some veterinarians may also recommend massaging the affected area around the eye. This can help to encourage the prolapsed gland back into place, and make the condition easier to manage. Massage should be done regularly and for at least several minutes at a time.
Additionally, a cone or Elizabethan collar must be put onto the pet to prevent them from scratching or licking the area. As this can cause great discomfort, it is important to provide comfort for your pet such as cozy beds or blankets.
Finally, a special dietary supplement may be recommended to help the affected gland heal and strengthen. In some cases, the supplement can be used long-term to ward off reoccurrence.
Altogether, carefully following the steps outlined above without surgery may be effective in treating cherry eye in dogs. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before treating the eye to ensure the condition is not too severe and surgery is not needed.
How long does it take for cherry eye to go down?
Cherry eye, or prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, is a common condition in certain dog breeds, particularly those with more prominent eyes such as pugs and bulldogs. The condition is characterized by a pink or reddish mass that protrudes from the inner corner of the eye and is caused by the prolapse of the tear gland normally located inside the third eyelid.
The condition is not painful, but should be treated promptly by a veterinarian in order to reduce irritation and the potential for long-term damage to the eye.
The treatment and recovery time for cherry eye varies between individual dogs, but typically the condition should improve within 2-4 weeks with proper treatment. Treatment usually involves the veterinarian repositioning the gland back into the eyelid using a combination of gentle massage and ointment.
After the gland is repositioned, most dogs will require a course of antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection, but some may need additional medications. During the course of treatment, it is important to keep the eye clean and to regularly use a topical lubricant to reduce dryness and irritation.
Most cases of cherry eye will resolve on their own within 4-6 weeks, but your veterinarian may need to perform a minor surgical procedure if the prolapsed gland does not reduce in size. In these cases, the procedure typically requires only local anaesthesia and should have minimal post-operative effects.
Overall, it may take between 2-6 weeks for cherry eye to go down depending on the treatment and individual dog, with most cases resolving on their own within 4 weeks.
How do you pop a cherry eye back in?
If your pet’s cherry eye is not successfully treated with ointment or is particularly swollen, you may need to attempt to manually pop the gland back into place. To do this, you will need a pair of gloves and a face mask, to avoid coming into contact with your pet’s saliva.
With the gloves on, hold the eyeball gently and place your other hand at the back of the eye socket. Move your finger gently towards the center of your pet’s face, pushing the gland into its natural position.
This should be done gently and slowly; if you feel any resistance, stop pushing and seek the help of your veterinarian. If the gland is successfully repositioned, firmly hold it in place for up to five minutes and monitor your pet to make sure it is comfortable.
You may need to repeat this process several times over the coming days or weeks. If at any point the gland does not stay in place, consult your vet for further treatment options.
Can cherry eye go back in on its own?
No, cherry eye cannot go back in on its own. Cherry eye, otherwise known as prolapse of the third eyelid gland, is a condition in which the gland of the third eyelid protrudes and becomes visible in the corner of the eye.
While this condition does not usually have any impact on the overall health of your pet, it is important to have it corrected to maintain the normal functioning of the eye. Your vet may be able to reposition the third eyelid gland back into position through nonsurgical methods, such as gentle massaging and lubrication.
Otherwise, if the repositioning of the gland does not occur, surgery may be necessary. Surgery is the only sure way to permanently fix the issue.
What can I do to help my dogs cherry eye?
Cherry eye, referring to the prolapse of the gland of third eyelid, is a common eye condition in dogs that can be caused by genetic predisposition, injury, or even exposure to irritants. Unfortunately, this medical condition is usually permanent, so it’s important to take swift action to reduce the risk of complications like dry eye, eyelid ulcers, or vision impairment.
The first step to treating a dog with cherry eye is to take them to see a veterinarian, who can diagnose the condition and discuss with you the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the prolapse and the underlying cause, treatment options may include artificial tear lubricants, antibiotics, and surgery.
If the vet recommends using artificial tear lubricants, these should be applied to the eye daily to help keep it moist, provide some lubrication, and reduce irritation. Antibiotic drops may be prescribed in cases of infection that accompany severe cases of cherry eye.
Surgery is often the best treatment for this condition and involves stitching the third eyelid gland back into place or creating a pocket to hold the gland in place.
When it comes to managing your dog’s cherry eye, keeping the area clean and moisturized between vet visits is essential. Use a damp cloth with warm water to gently clean the area around the eye and to remove any crusted matter.
Avoiding scratches and eyeball injuries while the gland is still prolapsed is also crucial, so be sure to keep the area protected during play or walks. Regular ophthalmology checks and follow up exams with the vet are recommended to monitor the health of the eye.
Does a warm compress help cherry eye in dogs?
Yes, a warm compress can help with cherry eye in dogs. Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help reduce inflammation, improve drainage of tears and correct the popped-out eye. When a dog has cherry eye, the gland of the third eyelid (a gland which aids in making tears) becomes displaced and can be visible as a red, swollen lump in the corner of the eye.
Applying a warm compress to the affected area will help reduce the swelling and can help encourage the gland to return to its original position. Make sure to use a clean cloth and to test the temperature on your hand before applying to your dog’s eye, as it should be slightly warm, not hot.
Do this several times a day for a few days and, depending on the severity, you may start to see an improvement. However, if you see no or minimal improvement, or if the eye becomes increasingly swollen, it may be a sign that professional veterinary care is needed.
Can cherry eye be treated without surgery?
Yes, cherry eye can be treated without surgery in some cases. In mild cases, the prolapsed gland may be pushed back into place manually by a veterinarian. The gland is then held in place with the help of a suture or special eye ointment.
However, this treatment does not always maintain the gland in place for an extended period of time, as it can still gravely out of place due to different causes such as inflammation or aging.
For more chronic cases of cherry eye, dietary supplements, eye drops, and other medications may be prescribed to strengthen the tissue that holds the gland in place. Additionally, many cases are managed through natural remedies and lifestyle changes, such as eliminating allergens, providing nutrition and adding omega fatty acids to the diet.
Furthermore, depending on the cause, lifestyle changes such as decreasing stress and providing gentle exercise may also be recommended.
Overall, the best way to treat cherry eye without surgery is to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the cause of the prolapse and identify the best course of treatment based on the severity and type of prolapse.
Can cherry eye come and go?
Cherry eye can come and go, depending on the individual dog and the severity of their condition. Some dogs may have a mild case of cherry eye where it may appear and disappear and require little to no treatment.
However, most dogs with cherry eye will require treatment because it is highly unlikely that the prolapse will go away without treatment. If left untreated, cherry eye can become a chronic problem and cause a wide range of complications, such as infection, irritation and discomfort in the affected eye.
This can lead to further issues, such as decreased vision, scarring and even blindness, if not treated in a timely manner. The best course of action for dogs with cherry eye is to seek prompt veterinary care to get the condition under control and prevent any further damage or discomfort.
