Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a pea-sized growth on her eye. Could it be a cyst?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi I already asked but the vet that gave me an answer said it would be best to add a photo ...I have a 9 year old terrier ( not sure of her breed) with a growth on her eye it started about a year ago with wat looked like a birthmark or pimple but has grown to about the size of a pea she does not seem to be in pain or be bothered by the growth ...waiting for a vet appointment any advice would be great

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 15th, 2017

To me, this looks like a Meibomian gland cyst. These are best removed surgically. It is unlikely that it will go away on it's own. It will likely continue to grow. The surgery will remove part of the lid margin, and then close with a suture. They heal very well.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2017

    I am not exactly sure what you mean by the waterline of the eye, but I think you might be talking about the area just above the lower eyelid. Dogs do not tend to get sties. If you take a picture and post it on here I will be able to give you a better idea of what it might be. However, the most common growth we see in this area of the eye is something called a Meibomian Gland adenoma. They are usually benign in terms of malignancy, but can become problematic if they grow in size. Once they start to touch the surface of the eye, they can cause irritation to the conjunctiva and ultimately result in scratching of the corneal surface. They can also result in the inappropriate tear production within the eye, which can cause corneal ulceration. Depending on the position and the size, the best thing to do sometimes is to have the mass removed surgically or by freezing it off. In about 5% of cases these masses can be malignant, so if you do choose to have them removed having a biopsy is often the best option.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2017

    This is most likely a Meibomian Gland grwoth. This is a growth associated with the third eyelid. They are usually benign, but in rare cases can be malignant growths. The only way to determine this is with removal and biopsy. There are many pictures of these types of tumors on google images for you to view. Many times these masses can be left alone, but they can also become too large and irritate the surface of the eye. When this happens, episodes of conjunctivitis and corneal ulceration can occur. These masses can also cause issues with tear production within the eye. When any of these instances occur, the best thing to do is have the mass removed.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored