This condition is not a pretty sight and can be frightening to the owner when first noticed. The red, fleshy gland that sits between the eyelid and the eyeball pops up and protrudes over the edge of the third eyelid. He notes that cherry eye is usually a canine problem, although similar cases have been observed in Burmese cats. Treatment techniques differ among veterinarians. It is important to note that the gland of the third eyelid is responsible for approximately 30 percent of a dog's tear production.
Tears are necessary to lubricate the cornea.
Dry eye is a vision-threatening disease. It is caused by tear deficiency and, if left untreated, may result in persistent redness, mucus discharge, corneal scarring and ulceration. Unfortunately, the same breeds that are predisposed to cherry eye are also predisposed to dry eye. For these breeds, it is believed that complete removal of the gland can further predispose these breeds to dry eye. As a result, VMTH policy recommends surgically repositioning the prolapsed gland in dogs that are predisposed to dry eye.