While more common in dogs than in cats, cherry eye is still a possibility. It’s a condition characterized by a small, pink or red bulge poking out near the inner corner of the eye. That bulge is the tear gland, an essential part of tear production.
Key Takeaways
Cherry eye in cats occurs when the third eyelid gland prolapses, exposing it to injury, irritation, and infection.
It’s caused by weak connective tissues, genetics and breed-related factors, inflammation, injuries, and infections.
Surgical correction is the primary treatment for cherry eye in cats.
What Is Cherry Eye in Cats?
Cherry eye is a term used to describe the red, swollen, and round mass that can be found in the corner of the cat’s eye. This is actually the third eyelid gland.
The third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, serves as a protective layer that also helps moisturize the eyes. This membrane houses a gland that produces a significant portion of the eye's tear film. Normally, it remains tucked away in the inner corner of the eye.
But in cherry eye, the gland pops out of its normal position, exposing it to infection and injury and causing it to lose function.
What Causes Cherry Eye in Cats?
The main factors include weak connective tissue, genetics, inflammation, and trauma.
Weak Connective Tissue
The most widely accepted explanation is that cherry eye in cats results from a structural weakness in the connective tissues that hold the tear gland of the third eyelid in place. When these tissues fail, the gland slips out of place and gets exposed.
This can be congenital and can also be influenced by the elasticity of the cat’s eye structures.
Genetic and Breed Predisposition
Another suspected cause is genetics. Some breeds, namely Persians, Burmese, and Himalayans, are susceptible to cherry eye due to their unique facial structures. This is because the unique facial conformation strains or causes pressure on the eye area, weakening the tissue.
This puts strain on the third eyelid, resulting in reduced stability.
Inflammation or Eye Trauma
Another potential trigger for gland prolapse is eye inflammation. Conditions such as feline conjunctivitis can cause swelling around the third eyelid, compromising structural integrity, potentially leading to cherry eye.
Similarly, trauma to the eye or surrounding area can increase the risk of the tear gland popping out. This means that, aside from accidents and animal fights, even the slightest scratches can contribute to feline cherry eye.
What Are the Symptoms of Feline Cherry Eye?
A common sign is the visible red bulge, with other symptoms indicating irritation and discomfort.
Visible Red or Pink Lump. The clearest sign of cherry eye in cats is the fleshy, red, or pink mass that appears on the corner of the eye. This resembles a small cherry, which may worsen over time.
Excessive Tearing or Eye Discharge. Affected cats may produce more tears than usual, resulting in watery eyes. In some cases, a thick discharge can be present, which indicates secondary eye infections.
Squinting or Frequent Blinking. As the gland becomes exposed, it’s susceptible to allergens, contact, and infections, which may prompt cats to squint or blink more.
Pawing or Rubbing at the Eye. Like with squinting, the irritation and inflammation may make cats paw or rub their eyes. Some may even use the surrounding furniture.
Swelling or Inflammation Around the Eye. In some cases, the surrounding tissues can appear swollen and inflamed, especially if the tear gland is infected.
Behavioral Changes. Cats with cherry eye will appear visibly stressed, uncomfortable, and in pain. Some will be more withdrawn and less playful.
Aside from its strange-looking appearance, it’s also uncomfortable and painful. In this blog, we’re going to talk all about what cherry eye in cats is, from what causes it to how it’s prevented.
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