Cherry Eye (Prolapse of the Gland of the Third Eyelid)

What is Cherry Eye?
This term describes a condition that causes the gland of the third eyelid to slip out of place in one or both eyes. People have two eyelids, but cats have a third that serves as added visual protection and to keep the eye moist. When the gland of the third  eyelid slips or falls out of place, it can be visible in the corner of a cat’s eye in a shape that looks like a small cherry.

How does my cat get Cherry Eye?
The exact cause is unclear, but cherry eye is thought to be the result of a congenital weakness of the attachment of the gland to the third eyelid. There are a number of dog breeds (such as Basset hounds and Cocker Spaniels) that are commonly seen with Cherry Eye, but it is far rarer in cats. In addition, eyelids may become inflamed in adult cats due to various medical conditions such as cancer as well as infections (bacterial, parasitic or fungal) and environmental (sun damage).

How do I know if my cat has Cherry Eye?
A cherry eye will appear as a red mass above the edge margin of the third eyelid. There may be increased tearing, redness to the eye, thick discharge from the eye and blinking. It is usually seen in younger cats between 6 months and two years of age. Your veterinarian will perform a complete eye exam that may include fluorescein staining of the cornea to validate this diagnosis or differentiate it from other similar conditions.

What can I do about Cherry Eye?
First, do not delay in having your cat taken to your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Avoid trying to touch the affected eye because you can worsen the inflammation and irritation. Untreated, a cat can develop more serious conditions or try to rub the Cherry Eye and cause further damage to the eyelid and possibly, the cornea. A veterinarian may try to reposition the third eyelid back into place. If this is not successful, than surgery is the best treatment option. Previously, removal of the gland was suggested, but this will lead to decreased tear production and other problems. Currently, the surgery tacks down the gland to prevent it from prolapsing but allowing it to continue to produce tears. Medication, including topical anti-inflammatory corticosteroid, may be prescribed following the cat’s recovery from surgery. Surgery does not guarantee that the gland will not prolapse again.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my cat from getting Cherry Eye?
Outside of careful breed selection, little can be done to prevent this condition.

Are there certain breeds that get Cherry Eye more often?
A specific cat breed, unlike in dogs, has not been identified to be at risk for this eye condition.