Is your dog showing a red, swollen lump in the corner of its eye? It could be cherry eye, a common eye condition affecting dogs in Kampala. If you’re searching online for:
- “dog eye problem treatment in Kampala”
- “best vet for cherry eye in dogs Uganda”
- “veterinarian to fix cherry eye near me”
- “how to treat cherry eye in my dog Kampala”
You’re in the right place.
At Superior Animal Clinic, located in Makindye along Salaama Road, we specialize in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of cherry eye in dogs across Kampala and beyond. Whether you live in Ntinda, Old Kampala, Lungujja, Kasubi, Nsambya, Katwe, Zana, Nakasero, Buziga, Munyonyo, Mityana, Muyenga, or any part of Central Uganda—we’ve got your dog’s eye health covered.
What is Cherry Eye in Dogs?
Cherry eye happens when a dog’s third eyelid gland (also known as the nictitating membrane) pops out of its normal position. This gland is responsible for producing tears, and when it slips out, it looks like a red or pink mass in the corner of the dog’s eye—hence the name “cherry eye.”
🐕 Which Dogs Are Mostly Affected by Cherry Eye in Uganda?
At Superior Animal Clinic, we’ve noticed cherry eye is more common in the following breeds:
- American Cocker Spaniels
- Beagles
- Bulldogs (English & French)
- Lhasa Apsos
- Shih Tzus
- Pekingese
- Pit Bulls
Dogs in Kampala with shorter muzzles and shallow eye sockets are especially prone.
Common Causes of Cherry Eye in Dogs in Kampala
- Genetic predisposition
- Weak connective tissue in the eye
- Eye trauma or irritation
- Infections
- Environmental irritants (dust, pollution in Kampala)
🌍 Areas We Serve in and Around Kampala
We welcome dog owners from:
Ntinda, Old Kampala, Lungujja, Kasubi, Nsambya, Katwe, Zana, Nakasero, Makindye, Buziga, Munyonyo, Mityana, Nakawa, Rubaga, Muyenga, Naguru, Bugolobi, Kabowa, Kabojja, Lugogo, Lubowa, Seguku, Ndejje, Kololo, Mutundwe, Bukoto, Bulindo, and Kulambiro.
No matter where you live in or around Kampala, you can easily access our expert care.
🔧 How We Treat Cherry Eye at Superior Animal Clinic Kampala
Treating Cherry Eye in Dogs – Methods Explained by Superior Animal Clinic, Kampala
Cherry eye is a common condition in dogs where the third eyelid gland (nictitating membrane) prolapses or pops out, forming a red, swollen mass in the inner corner of the eye. At Superior Animal Clinic in Makindye, Salaama Road, Kampala, we often treat dogs suffering from this issue.
Here are the main methods used to treat cherry eye in dogs:
1. Medical Treatment (Initial Management)
This is usually a temporary or early-stage approach.
What it involves:
- Use of anti-inflammatory eye drops (e.g., corticosteroids)
- Lubricating eye ointments to soothe irritation
- Antibiotic drops if infection is present
When it’s used:
- In mild or early cases
- While preparing the dog for surgery
- If the dog is too young or sick to undergo surgery immediately
Limitations:
- It rarely cures the condition permanently
- The gland usually pops out again
2. Surgical Replacement of the Gland (Preferred Method)
This is the most recommended treatment.
What it involves:
- A veterinary surgeon repositions and sutures the prolapsed gland back into place
- Common techniques include:
- Pocket technique (most popular): The gland is placed into a pocket made in the third eyelid
- Anchoring technique: The gland is sutured to the cartilage or the eye tissues
- Pocket technique (most popular): The gland is placed into a pocket made in the third eyelid
Benefits:
- Preserves the gland and its tear-producing function
- Reduces risk of dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
Risks:
- Possibility of recurrence (though low when done properly)
- Requires anesthesia
3. Surgical Removal of the Gland (No Longer Recommended Unless Necessary)
What it involves:
- Complete removal of the third eyelid gland
When it’s used:
- Only if the gland is severely damaged
- After repeated failed attempts at replacement surgery
Risks:
- High risk of developing dry eye for the rest of the dog’s life
- Requires lifelong artificial tears
- Can reduce the dog’s overall eye immunity and lubrication
4. Post-Treatment Care
After any treatment, especially surgery, your dog may require:
- An Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent scratching
- Eye drops or ointment for inflammation or infection
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
Cherry Eye Surgery in Kampala – What to Expect
- Fast, safe procedure
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Takes 30–60 minutes
- Minimal scarring
- High success rate
Dogs can go home the same day after surgery with a protective cone and medications.
🐾 Types of Cherry Eye Seen at Superior Animal Clinic
- Unilateral Cherry Eye – Only one eye is affected.
- Bilateral Cherry Eye – Both eyes are affected (can happen at different times).
Predisposing Factors to Cherry Eye in Kampala Dogs
- Breed/genetics
- Young age (under 2 years)
- Lack of early treatment
- Exposure to environmental irritants
- Over-grooming around the eye area
How to Prevent Cherry Eye in Dogs in Uganda
While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce your dog’s risk by:
- Scheduling regular vet checkups
- Avoiding trauma to the eyes
- Keeping your dog away from dusty environments
- Using dog-safe eye wipes to clean around the eye
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Cherry Eye?
Ignoring cherry eye can lead to:
- Chronic eye infections
- Dry eye disease (KCS)
- Permanent eye damage
- Pain and discomfort
- Vision loss
Early treatment = better outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is cherry eye painful for my dog?
A: Yes, it can cause irritation, discomfort, and long-term damage if untreated.
Q: How much does cherry eye surgery cost in Kampala?
A: Cherry eye surgery costs UGX 350,000 to UGX 450,000 in Kampala at Superior Animal Clinic
Q: Can cherry eye go away on its own?
A: Very rarely. Most cases require medical or surgical treatment.
Q: How long is the recovery after surgery?
A: Most dogs recover in 1–2 weeks with proper care.
Q: Can cherry eye return after surgery?
A: Recurrence is possible but rare when the procedure is done by experienced vets like ours.
Q: Can cherry eye affect both eyes at once?
A: Yes, although it often starts in one eye, cherry eye can eventually develop in the second eye too—especially in predisposed breeds.
Q: Will my dog go blind if the cherry eye is not treated?
A: Cherry eye itself doesn’t cause blindness, but if left untreated, it can lead to chronic infections, scarring, and permanent vision loss over time.
Q: Is cherry eye contagious between dogs?
A: No. Cherry eye is not contagious—it’s usually due to genetic or anatomical factors, not infection.
Q: How do I know if my dog has cherry eye or just an eye infection?
A: Cherry eye appears as a round, red or pink mass in the inner corner of the eye. Infections often come with redness, discharge, and swelling without the protruding gland. A vet visit is the best way to confirm.
Q: How long does cherry eye surgery take?
A: The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and your dog can often go home the same day.
Q: What should I do if my dog keeps scratching its eye after surgery?
A: Use the e-collar (cone) provided to prevent scratching and attend follow-ups at Superior Animal Clinic for post-op care.
Q: What’s the success rate of cherry eye surgery in Kampala?
A: At Superior Animal Clinic, we maintain a high success rate of 98% thanks to advanced techniques and post-op care.
Q: How soon should I bring my dog to the vet if I notice cherry eye?
A: Immediately—early intervention can reduce swelling and may help avoid surgery.
Q: Where can I take my dog for cherry eye treatment in Kampala, Uganda?
A: Superior Animal Clinic, call 0771909946
Q: Do puppies get cherry eye too?
A: Yes, cherry eye commonly appears in dogs under 2 years old, especially certain breeds.
Why Choose Superior Animal Clinic for Cherry Eye in Kampala?
✅ Located conveniently in Makindye along Salaama Road
✅ Experienced veterinarians skilled in advanced eye surgeries
✅ We serve pet owners from all Kampala neighborhoods
✅ Compassionate, clean, and well-equipped veterinary hospital
✅ Affordable, transparent pricing
✅ Personalized follow-up care
✅ Trusted by dog owners across Uganda
📍 Visit Superior Animal Clinic Today!
Whether you’re in Kololo, Naguru, Nsambya, Zana, or Bulindo, make Superior Animal Clinic your first choice for treating cherry eye in dogs.
📞 Call now to book your appointment or visit us directly in Makindye!
