Cherry eye in cats is the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid — a red, fleshy oval mass that appears in the inner corner of the eye. Less common in cats than dogs, but very recognisable and worth assessing quickly. PawCheck screens for it free.
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Cats have a third eyelid (nictitating membrane) with an attached gland that normally stays hidden. Cherry eye occurs when this gland prolapses — popping out as a visible red mass in the inner corner of the eye. It cannot resolve on its own and requires veterinary attention.
A smooth, oval, red or pink fleshy mass visible in the inner corner (medial canthus) of one eye. It may appear suddenly. The eye may be partially obscured, and secondary discharge or irritation is common as the exposed gland becomes inflamed.
Unlike some eye conditions, cherry eye does not resolve spontaneously. The gland must be surgically repositioned by a veterinarian — the longer it remains prolapsed, the more inflamed and damaged it becomes. Early veterinary attention gives the best outcome.
Burmese cats have the highest documented predisposition. Persian cats are also reported. Cherry eye can occur in any cat breed — particularly in young cats under 2 years old who have a genetic laxity in the ligament that holds the gland in place.
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