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My dog's eye swells and disappears. Is it cherry eye? What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 1 day old | 12 lbs

My dog developed a swelling in his eye. It will appear and disappear. The vet wants me to bring him in today but I don't have any money till Thursday. Are you able to give me an idea of what it may be and any treatment I can provide until I can take him in. His behavior is normal. Eats and sleeps the same amount. Rubs his eyes but not frequently. Discharge is minimal and appears white.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 30th, 2019

Hello. Chewie has a prolapse of the nictictating membrane, or what is commonly know as cherry eye. This can definitely wait until Thursday, but Chewie will need a little surgery to replace the gland back into its little sac. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

    Published on May 17th, 2018

    From the pictures you posted, I suspect that the gland is what we call prolapsed which means that it is no longer held where is is supposed to be. We commonly call this a Cherry Eye. The only good treatment for this condition is to replace the gland into the correct location (which is unfortunately a surgical technique). I am attaching a handout with more information for you below. https://www.vin.com/veterinarypartner/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951447 Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using PetCoach.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 27th, 2020

    What you are seeing is called a "cherry eye". That is where the tear gland of the third eyelid pops out of place. Typically, once out of place it will stay out but there are some dogs where it will pop in and out. This should be surgically repaired or removed. It is a genetic defect. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cherry-eye-in-dogs

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