Cocker Spaniel Health Problems - Cherry Eye

Cherry eye is a common problem in American Cocker Spaniels. Medically known as "nictitans gland prolapse", or prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, cherry eye is an eye condition in which the gland of the third eyelid comes out of its normal position and becomes red and swollen, making it looks like a cherry - thus the name cherry eye.

It is not difficult to see and diagnose this eye condition. If your dog has cherry eye, you can see the following signs and symptoms:

• A pink or red mass protruding from the corner of the eye closest to the nose.
• Sometimes a mucous discharge from the eye can be seen.
• The lining of the eyelid may become red.
• Your dog may scratch or rub the affected eye.

The preferred treatment of this eye condition is to surgically reposition the gland.