Species: Dog
Condition: Eversion of Nictitating Membrane
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
Also called, Cherry Eye, the condition results from the prolapse or eversion of the gland present in the dog’s nictitating membrane. It is a part of the dog’s eye which is also known as the third eyelid. The ugly red mass protruding from the dog’s eye can cause eye dryness, irritation, pain, and inflammation. The affected dog may paw and rub their eyes or rub their faces on the floor or furniture in an effort to relieve the discomfort. The eversion may occur in one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) eyes. Treatment options include application of topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Surgery is also an option to reposition the prolapsed third eyelid gland. Removal of the gland is not recommended because the dog can suffer from dry eyes, a condition that can increase a dog’s risk of developing keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eyes).
Breeds exposed to Eversion of Nictitating Membrane – Research Reference
Miniature Poodle Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Poodle – Toy Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Miniature Poodle – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Poodle – Toy – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Skye Terrier – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Cavoodle – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Skye Terrier Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Eversion of Nictitating Membrane or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
