The adorable, wrinkly faces of bulldogs have captured the hearts of millions, but along with their charming features come some unique health challenges. If you’ve noticed a red, swollen mass in the corner of your bulldog’s eye, you might be looking at a condition called “cherry eye.” However, there is no need to panic! We see this condition frequently at Broadway Veterinary Hospital and have extensive experience treating it successfully.
Our team specializes in bulldog care, bringing years of focused experience to every case we treat. Dr. Sam Varon has developed particular expertise in bulldog-specific surgeries, including eyelid repairs, cherry eye corrections, facial fold resections, and breathing surgeries using advanced laser techniques. This specialized knowledge allows us to provide tailored care that addresses bulldogs’ unique anatomy and health needs. We understand your bulldog isn’t just a pet—they’re family—so we’ve dedicated ourselves to mastering the treatments that keep these lovable, wrinkly companions healthy and happy.
What Exactly Is Cherry Eye?
Cherry eye gets its name from the red, cherry-like mass that protrudes from the inner corner of your dog’s eye. Though it looks alarming, it’s actually a condition where the third eyelid gland (yes, dogs have a third eyelid!) pops out of its normal position.
Due to their unique facial structure, bulldogs and other flat-faced breeds are particularly prone to this condition. Cherry eye isn’t just a cosmetic issue, as this gland produces between 30% and 50% of your dog’s tear film, which is essential for keeping their eyes healthy and lubricated.
Some common signs of cherry eye include:
- A visible red mass at the inner corner of the eye
- Excessive tearing or watering of the eye
- Pawing or rubbing at the affected eye
- Discharge from the eye that may be clear or slightly murky
Many bulldog owners first notice cherry eye when snapping photos of their pup, only to find that distinctive red blob photobombing, what would have been the perfect Instagram moment!
Why Do Bulldogs Get Cherry Eye?
Bulldogs are lovable animals with their distinctive smooshed faces, but this adorable trait comes with some genetic predispositions. Cherry eye occurs when the connective tissue that holds the third eyelid gland in place weakens or fails to develop correctly. Several factors contribute to why bulldogs are particularly susceptible, including:
- Their unique facial anatomy puts more strain on the connective tissues around the eyes
- Genetic factors that run in flat-faced breeds
- The natural tendency toward tissue laxity in bulldogs
It’s worth noting that cherry eye can affect either one or both eyes and can happen at any age, though it’s most common in younger dogs under two years old.
Treatment Options for Cherry Eye
When it comes to treating cherry eye in bulldogs, several approaches can be taken depending on the severity and your pet’s specific needs. As bulldog specialists, Dr. Sam and our veterinary team at Broadway Veterinary Hospital are experts in the various surgical techniques used to repair cherry eye.
Non-Surgical Approaches
In mild cases, medical management may be the best solution for treating your bulldog’s cherry eye. This might include:
- Gentle massage techniques to try to reposition the gland
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
- Lubricating eye drops to keep the eye comfortable
However, in most cases, surgical repair is the recommended treatment. The goal is to reposition the gland while preserving its crucial tear-producing function. Dr. Sam is particularly skilled at cherry eye repairs, which is one of his specialties with bulldogs.
Surgical Approaches
The most common surgical approaches include:
- The “pocket technique”: Creating a pocket to tuck the gland back into its proper position
- The “anchoring technique”: Securing the gland to nearby tissue to keep it in place
- Modified techniques: Specifically designed for the unique anatomy of bulldogs
Surgery is typically outpatient, meaning your furry friend can go home the same day. Recovery involves some medication and possibly an Elizabethan collar (the infamous “cone of shame”) to prevent your bulldog from rubbing their eye.
Trust Broadway Veterinary Hospital to Help Prevent and Treat Your Bulldog’s Cherry Eye
While cherry eye can’t always be prevented due to its genetic component, regular veterinary checkups can help catch it early when it’s easier to treat. Our team at Broadway Veterinary Hospital recommends routine examinations for all bulldogs, especially given their predisposition to various eye conditions.
If your bulldog is experiencing cherry eye or any other health concerns, we’re here to help. Our passion for providing exceptional care, particularly for bulldogs and their unique needs, drives everything we do at Broadway Veterinary Hospital. Contact us at (916) 446-6154 or through our contact form to schedule an appointment.
