Feline Cherry Eye Surgery
Cherry eye is far less common in cats than in dogs, which is exactly why it deserves experienced attention. At View Referrals, we carry out feline cherry eye surgery across Central Scotland, returning the prolapsed gland to its normal position so the affected eye stays healthy, comfortable and well protected.
What is cherry eye?
Cats have three eyelids – an upper, a lower and a third eyelid – the latter is a pink membrane that sweeps across the eye from the inner corner when your cat blinks or is tired. Behind the third eyelid sits a tear gland responsible for producing a portion of the tear film. When this eyelid gland slips forward, it appears as a pink or red swelling at the inner corner of the eye, and that swollen appearance is where the name comes from.
Signs to look for
- A round, red or pink swelling in the inner corner of the eye
- Watery discharge or a sticky, gummy eye
- Squinting or excessive blinking in one eye
- Rubbing at the face with a paw or against furniture
- Redness and irritation of the conjunctiva
- The third eyelid covering more of the eye’s surface than usual
Our approach to cherry eye treatment
Michael or Richard will examine your cat fully first, including a tear test and an assessment of the outer eyelids. Cherry eye surgery, if necessary, is then performed under general anaesthetic. We favour pocket surgical techniques, creating a small pocket in the conjunctiva, tucking the gland back into place and closing the pocket with fine suture material. Preserving the gland this way maintains tear production and lowers the risk of re-prolapse.
Aftercare and recovery
Most patients go home the same day of their surgery. We supply eye drops, pain relief and clear instructions for protecting the surgical site, along with a recheck appointment to confirm healing and rule out complications. Please ask your vet to refer your cat to us. Current costs are listed on our pricing page.
Get Your Referral Today
If you or your vet has concerns about your dog’s comfort or eye health, please ask them to refer you to us.
For urgent matters, please call us on 07344 407 630.