Canine Third Eyelid Prolapse: Symptoms and Management

Canine third eyelid prolapse, also known as “cherry eye,” is a relatively common condition in dogs, characterized by the protrusion of the nictitating membrane (third eyelid). While often benign, it can lead to significant discomfort and potential complications if left untreated. This condition affects various breeds, with some showing a higher predisposition than others. Understanding the symptoms is crucial for early intervention and effective management.

Early Symptoms:

The onset of cherry eye often begins subtly. Initially, the affected dog may exhibit signs of mild irritation, including:

Mild swelling of the third eyelid: A small, pinkish, fleshy mass may appear in the inner corner of the lower eyelid. This is often the first noticeable sign.

Conjunctival redness (hyperemia): The conjunctiva, the membrane lining the inner eyelid and covering the white of the eye, becomes red and inflamed.

Increased tearing (epiphora): The dog may experience excessive tearing, leading to wet fur beneath the eye.

Mild discomfort: The dog might show some signs of discomfort, rubbing its eye occasionally. However, at this stage, the discomfort is usually not severe.

As the condition progresses, the prolapsed gland enlarges noticeably within a few days (typically 3-7 days), often reaching the size of a pea. The initially pinkish mass may become more inflamed and darker in color. In many cases, one eye is affected first, with the other eye often developing the condition shortly after. However, some dogs will experience bilateral prolapse simultaneously.

Advanced Symptoms:

If left untreated, cherry eye can progress to more severe symptoms:

Significant enlargement of the prolapsed gland: The mass becomes larger and more prominent, potentially obstructing the dog’s vision.

Increased inflammation and redness: The inflammation intensifies, and the conjunctiva may become significantly swollen and congested.

Purulent discharge: The eye may start producing a thick, yellowish-green, pus-like discharge, indicating a secondary bacterial infection.

Severe discomfort and pain: The dog will experience increased discomfort and pain, leading to more frequent and vigorous eye rubbing. This can cause further damage to the cornea, leading to corneal abrasions or ulcers.

Secondary infections: Bacterial infections, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), are common secondary complications. These infections can lead to corneal ulceration, scarring, and potentially even blindness if not treated appropriately.

Corneal damage: Due to the constant irritation and rubbing, the cornea can become scratched or ulcerated, leading to further complications like pain, impaired vision, and possible blindness.

Visual impairment: In severe cases, the prolapsed gland can significantly obstruct the dog’s vision, affecting its daily activities.

Differentiating Cherry Eye from other Conditions:

It’s important to note that a pink mass in the corner of a dog’s eye isn’t always cherry eye. Other conditions such as tumors or other eye-related issues can present similarly. Therefore, a proper veterinary diagnosis is crucial to determine the correct course of action.

Contributing Factors:

The exact cause of cherry eye is still debated, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Genetics: Certain breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Shih Tzus, Bulldogs, and others, are more prone to cherry eye. A genetic predisposition to weakness in the connective tissues supporting the third eyelid is thought to play a role.

Infections: Eye infections can inflame the third eyelid and contribute to its prolapse.

Trauma: Injuries to the eye area can weaken the connective tissues supporting the gland, leading to prolapse.

Immune system disorders: Autoimmune conditions that affect connective tissue could also increase the risk.

Environmental irritants: Irritants such as dust, pollen, or other foreign objects can irritate the eye and contribute to the condition.

Treatment Options:

Treatment options for cherry eye depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, lubricating eye drops or ointments may temporarily alleviate symptoms, but this is typically not a long-term solution. The most common and effective treatment is surgical intervention. Surgery involves repositioning (re-embedding) or, in some cases, removal of the prolapsed gland. The re-embedding procedure is generally preferred as it preserves the gland’s tear-producing function. However, in severe cases, where the gland is significantly damaged or chronically inflamed, removal might be necessary.

Post-surgical care is vital and involves the use of prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye medications to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor healing and address any complications. Although surgery is generally effective, there’s a small risk of recurrence, particularly if underlying connective tissue weakness persists.

Conclusion:

Canine third eyelid prolapse, while often not immediately life-threatening, warrants veterinary attention. Recognizing the early symptoms and seeking prompt professional care is crucial for effective management and preventing potential complications, such as corneal damage, secondary infections, and persistent discomfort for your beloved companion. Early intervention often results in a more favorable prognosis and better quality of life for your dog.