Cherry Eye In Cats And Dogs: Causes & Treatment Nigeria

If you’ve ever looked at your dog or cat and suddenly noticed a red, fleshy “ball” sitting at the corner of their eye, don’t panic; but don’t ignore it either. That condition is often cherry eye in cats and dogs, and while it looks dramatic, it’s treatable when handled early. During telehealth consults at MyGoToVet, we see this problem more often than people realise, especially in puppies and certain dog breeds. That’s why our expert providers always encourages pet parents to act quickly instead of trying home remedies. Furthermore, when you understand what’s happening, you’ll feel calmer and make the best choice for your pet. So whether you live in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, or anywhere else in Nigeria, experts at MyGoToVet can guide you through the right steps to protect your pet’s eyes and comfort.

Now, let’s break it down clearly and in a way that makes sense... even if this is your first time hearing the term “cherry eye.”

Cherry Eye in Cats & Dogs in Nigeria: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What Exactly Is Cherry Eye?

Cherry eye happens when a tear-producing gland inside your pet’s third eyelid (also called the nictitating membrane) slips out of its normal position and pops forward. Because that gland becomes swollen and red, it looks like a small cherry- hence the name.

However, cherry eye isn’t just a “cosmetic issue.” Even though the red lump might not look painful at first, the gland is important because it produces a big portion of your pet’s tears. Therefore, when it stays out for too long, your pet can develop dry eye, chronic irritation, or repeated infections.

The Third Eyelid: The Hidden Protector

Most people don’t know that dogs and cats have a third eyelid. In fact, it’s like a built-in “windshield wiper” that protects the eye from dust, trauma, and dehydration. Even more importantly, the third eyelid gland produces tears that keep the eye moist and safe. So when the gland prolapses (comes out), it becomes exposed and irritated.

Why It Looks Like a Red Cherry

Because the gland is delicate, exposure causes swelling quickly. As a result, you see a round red or pink mass in the inner corner of the eye. In many cases, the lump looks bigger after your pet plays outside or rubs their face on the rug.

Cherry Eye vs Other Eye Problems in Dogs and Cats

At first glance, cherry eye can look like other issues. However, a few clues help:

• Cherry eye: a smooth, red/pink bulge at the inner corner of the eye
  
• Conjunctivitis (“Apollo”): red eye with discharge, but no lump
• Corneal ulcer: squinting, cloudy eye, pain, and sometimes pawing
• Eye tumor: may look irregular, grows slowly, and can bleed

Even so, it’s best to let a vet confirm the diagnosis. Luckily, MyGoToVet experts can help you do that quickly. Create an account to book a same-day virtual consult today

Is Cherry Eye Common in Nigeria?

Yes, and it’s becoming more common as more Nigerians keep dogs like Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, and Pugs. These breeds are genetically prone to developing eye issues such as cherry eye .

Additionally, the Nigerian environment can worsen eye conditions. For instance, dust from harmattan, smoke from generators, and roadside pollution can increase irritation. Consequently, the gland becomes swollen faster and looks more severe.

Here's the story of “Max” the Lhasa Apso

A client in Surulere noticed a red lump in Max’s eye after an evening walk. At first, they assumed it was dust and tried wiping it with tissue. Unfortunately, Max began rubbing his face on the floor, and the swelling doubled by the next day. A quick telehealth consult by a verified veterinarian on mygotovet confirmed it was cherry eye and we referred them to our partner clinic with our diagnosis. Since it was early, surgery was successful and Max recovered smoothly.

Lesson: quick action saves tears (literally).

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Causes of Cherry Eye in Cats & Dogs

Cherry eye usually happens because the gland is held in place by a ligament, and that ligament becomes weak. When that support fails, the gland slips out.

1) Weak Ligament Holding the Tear Gland

This is the main cause of cherry eyes in cats and dogs. Most cases are structural where the ligament is simply not strong enough, so the gland collapses (prolapse). That’s why cherry eye often shows up in young pets, even before one year of age.

2) Genetics and Breed Predisposition

Some breeds are “born ready” for cherry eye. Therefore, owners of the following breeds should watch carefully:

• Bulldogs
• Beagles
• Cocker Spaniels
• Pugs
• Lhasa Apsos
• Shih Tzus
• Cane Corsos
• Shar Peis

3) Trauma, Inflammation, and Eye Rubbing

Sometimes, play fighting, scratches, or repeated rubbing pushes the gland outward. This can happen when a dog is itchy due to allergies. Similarly, cats that love “boxing” each other during play can get minor trauma that triggers prolapse.

4) Chronic Eye Irritation and Infection

When the eye stays inflamed for weeks, the tissue becomes weak and swollen. As a result, the gland may pop out even in pets without a genetic tendency.

Dogs vs Cats: Who Gets Cherry Eye More Often?

Dogs get cherry eye far more than cats. Dogs Are More Frequently Affected because they have a higher rate of gland prolapse due to breed genetics. Besides that, puppies play rough, rub their faces, and pick up infections easily. Still, cats can develop a similar-looking problem, although it’s often linked to another issue.

Causes of Cherry Eye in Cats

In cats, a protruding third eyelid can be due to:

• eye infection
• dehydration
• gastrointestinal illness
• nerve problems

So if you see “cherry eye-like” swelling in a cat, it’s important to check for deeper causes.

“Nala” the Cat with a Surprise Diagnosis

We onced booked a teleconsult for Nala’s owners. They lived in Abuja and thought Nala had cherry eye because her eyes were pink and swollen. However, after a virtual examination and teleconsult, the expert ruled that the causee of Nala's the third eyelid protruding was because of dehydration and fever. Treatment focused on fluids and infection control, and the third eyelid went back to normal in 48 hours.

Lesson: not every red corner-eye is cherry eye, especially in cats. Talk to a Cat Veterinarian Now

Breeds Most Prone to Cherry Eye

1. Dog Breeds at higher risk include; Bulldogs, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and Shih Tzus top the list.
2. Cats with certain Facial Structure such as; Flat-faced cats (like Persians) can have more eye irritation, which increases the chance of gland issues, although true cherry eye is still uncommon.
3. Mixed Breeds Can Still Get Cherry Eye; Yes. Even though pure breeds are more likely, mixed-breed dogs can still develop the condition if the ligament is weak or inflammation is ongoing.

Cherry Eye Symptoms to Watch For

Cherry eye is often visible instantly. Still, other symptoms can help confirm it. common signs to watch out for include:

• red/pink bulge at inner corner of the eye
• watery discharge or tears
• pawing at face
• squinting or blinking repeatedly
• swelling that worsens after rubbing
• mild redness around the eye

Signs That Require Urgent Vet Attention

If you notice any of these, act fast:

• thick yellow or green discharge
• cloudy eye
• your pet refuses to open the eye
• eye looks scratched or bleeding
• sudden swelling with intense pain

How Vets Diagnose Cherry Eye in Nigeria

MyGoToVet verified veterinary providers via teleconsult can diagnosis cherry eyes through physical examintions. Veterinary clinics might still do additional tests when needed such as;

1. Physical Eye Exam: The vet checks the gland, eyelids, and tear film.
2. Fluorescein Stain Test: This helps detect corneal ulcers, especially if the pet has been rubbing the eye.
3. Tear Production Tests: Because cherry eye can reduce tear flow over time, vets may test tear quantity.

Be careful of Look-Alikes...

A mass could be a tumor, abscess, or foreign body. Therefore, proper diagnosis matters.

Is Cherry Eye Painful or Dangerous?

Cherry eye is uncomfortable. In many cases, it isn’t extremely painful at first, but the irritation grows over time. Also, the longer it stays out, the higher the chance of complications.

Complications of Cherry Eyes if Left Untreated inlcude:

• chronic inflammation
• corneal ulcers from rubbing
• repeated infections
• tear gland damage
• dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca / KCS)

Dry eye is a big deal because it causes thick discharge and long-term discomfort. Worse still, it can reduce vision in severe cases.

Cherry Eye Treatment Options in Nigeria

Treatment depends on severity, duration, and your pet’s overall health.

• When Cherry Eye Can Be Managed Without Surgery

In very early cases, vets may recommend:

• lubricating drops
• anti-inflammatory medication
• treating allergies or infections

However, medical management rarely fixes the root cause. So, while drops may reduce swelling, the gland can prolapse again.

• Why “Pushing It Back” Doesn’t Fix Cherry Eyes

Some owners try to DIY by gently push the gland back in, this is not advised as even though the prolapsed eyelid might stay temporarily, it often pops out again because the ligament is still weak. Additionally, repeated pushing can inflame the gland even more. Therefore, don’t rely on that approach.

• Surgical Treatment

Surgery is the preferred long-term solution for Cherry eyes as it is performed to replace and secure the gland in its proper position permanently. This method protects tear production and reduces future dry eye risk. Please note that surgical treatment does not involve Gland Removal. Removing the gland might look like a quick fix. Nevertheless, it increases the chance of dry eye later. Most modern vets recommend gland replacement, not removal.

Cherry Eye Surgery in Nigeria: What to Expect

Many Nigerian pet owners fear surgery. Still, cherry eye surgery is generally safe and effective when done by trained vets.

Common Surgical Techniques

• Pocket technique: gland is tucked into a tissue “pocket”
• Anchoring technique: gland is stitched to deeper tissue for support

The vet chooses the method based on the pet’s anatomy and recurrence risk. Your pet will be placed under anesthesia for comfort and to prevent movement. Before that, vets may do basic pre-anesthetic checks, especially for older pets.

Success Rates and Recurrence of Cherry Eyes in Pets

Most pets heal within 10–14 days. During that time, your pet must wear an elizabethan collar to prevent scratching. Success is usually high. However, recurrence can happen, particularly in breeds like Bulldogs. Even then, a second procedure often solves it.

Cherry Eye Recovery and Home Care Tips

Recovery is where many owners slip up. Yet, with proper care, healing is smooth. Some recovery tip include:

• use prescribed eye drops consistently
• keep the e-collar on (yes, even at night!)
• stop play fighting for 2 weeks
• avoid dusty environments
• return for follow-up appointments

“Bruno” and the E-Collar Battle

Bruno and his owner lived in Port-Harcourt. After a cherry eye corrective surgery we got a teleconsult booking as Bruno's owner had removed Bruno's e-collar because he “looked sad.” Sadly, Bruno scratched his eye at midnight, and the stitches loosened. As a result, the gland prolapsed again and needed correction.

Lesson: the e-collar is not punishment; it’s protection.

Cherry Eye Treatment Cost in Nigeria 

Prices vary by clinic, location, and procedure type. For example, surgery in Lagos may cost more than in smaller towns due to overhead. this is due to the following reasons:

• consultation and eye tests
• medication needs
• anesthesia and monitoring
• surgeon experience
• recurrence complexity

Even so, paying for proper correction is usually cheaper than managing lifelong dry eye.

Can Cherry Eye Heal on Its Own?

In most cases, no. Although swelling may reduce, the ligament weakness remains. Therefore, it often comes back. therefore, waiting can only make it worse. The longer the gland stays out, the higher the chance it becomes permanently swollen or damaged. Consequently, surgery becomes more difficult and dry eye risk rises.

Preventing Cherry Eye and Protecting Eye Health

Cherry eye isn’t always preventable because genetics play a role. Still, you can reduce irritation and avoid triggers. Here are some practical and proven tips:

• avoid walking dogs in heavy dust, especially during harmattan
  
• wipe the face with clean damp cloth after outdoor play
• treat allergies early
• keep your pet’s sleeping area clean
• prevent rough face rubbing by trimming nails
• When to See a Vet Immediately

Go to a vet urgently if:

• the swelling grows rapidly
• your pet can’t open the eye
• the eye becomes cloudy
• there’s thick yellow-green discharge
• your pet seems weak or feverish

At MyGoToVet, we always advise: when in doubt, check it out. Contact Mygotovet today for expert-recommended foods, feeding guides, and personalized care support.

Key Takeaways for Nigerian Pet Owners dealing with Cherry Eyes

Cherry eye looks scary, but it’s manageable. More importantly, the gland should be preserved whenever possible. So, the best approach is:

• confirm diagnosis early
• avoid unsafe home remedies
• protect the tear gland
• follow recovery instructions strictly

Don’t Let Cherry Eye Steal Your Pet’s Comfort

Seeing that red lump in your pet’s eye can be frightening. Still, with the right care, cherry eye in cats and dogs is very treatable, and most pets recover fully. Even better, early treatment protects tear production and prevents long-term dry eye issues. So, instead of guessing or trying risky home fixes, let a professional assess your pet’s eye properly.

If your pet has signs of cherry eye, or any sudden eye swelling, book a veterinary consultation with a verified provider on MyGoToVet today. We’ll examine your pet, explain treatment options clearly, and support you from diagnosis to recovery. 

Connect with qualified veterinarians and let’s keep those bright eyes healthy, happy, and shining.. Your pet deserve nothing less.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Cherry Eyes in Cats and Dogs

1) What is cherry eye in cats and dogs, and why does it happen?

Cherry eye in cats and dogs is the prolapse of the third eyelid tear gland, which creates a red or pink lump in the inner corner of the eye. It happens mostly because the ligament holding the gland is weak, especially in young dogs and certain breeds like Bulldogs, Beagles, and Shih Tzus. While cats can get it, it’s rarer and sometimes linked to underlying illness. Because the gland produces tears, leaving it untreated can lead to dry eye, irritation, and repeated infections. Therefore, early veterinary treatment is the safest option.

2) Can cherry eye in dogs be treated at home without surgery?

Home treatment usually cannot permanently fix cherry eye. Although lubricating drops may reduce swelling, the gland often pops out again because the ligament is still weak. Some people try pushing the gland back, but it commonly returns and may worsen inflammation. Surgery is typically the most effective long-term option because it secures the gland back in place and protects tear production. If your dog suddenly develops cherry eye, consult a vet quickly so the gland doesn’t stay exposed and damaged.

3) How much does cherry eye surgery cost in Nigeria?

The cost of cherry eye surgery in Nigeria varies based on the clinic, your city, and the severity of the case. Generally, factors like consultation fees, anesthesia, medications, and surgical technique influence pricing. Clinics in major cities like Lagos or Abuja may charge more because of higher operating costs. Still, treating cherry eye early is usually more affordable than managing chronic dry eye for years. To get an accurate estimate, consult a veterinary clinic like MyGoToVet for a tailored cost breakdown.

4) Is cherry eye painful for dogs, and will it affect their vision?

Cherry eye is usually uncomfortable rather than severely painful at first. However, it can become painful if the eye gets scratched or infected. Dogs may rub their face, squint, or tear excessively because the gland feels irritating. While cherry eye doesn’t directly cause blindness, complications like corneal ulcers or chronic dry eye can reduce vision over time. That’s why prompt treatment matters. When addressed early—especially through gland replacement surgery—most dogs recover well with normal vision and comfort.

5) Can cherry eye come back after surgery in cats and dogs?

Yes, cherry eye can recur after surgery, although many pets heal permanently after one successful procedure. Recurrence is more likely in breeds with weak facial structures or severe inflammation, such as Bulldogs. In some cases, pets may need a second surgery to secure the gland more strongly. Proper aftercare reduces recurrence risk, so keeping the e-collar on and using prescribed drops consistently is essential. If the gland pops out again, see your vet quickly to prevent irritation and tear gland damage.