Species: Dog Breed: Australian Cattle Do Age: 2-5 years
Dear Dr. Marie,
I am writing about my 3-year-old Australian Cattle Dog, Bruce. Two days ago, I noticed that he had some irritation and redness in the white portion of his left eye. Today, he now has a small, pink bump on the skin around the inside corner of his left eye (the initial redness has subsided). I'm not sure whether the two are related, but it seems oddly coincidental that both concern his left eye. Other than that, he has not been acting any differently than normal.
Do you have an idea of what this could be? Should I be alarmed? I can send you a photo if that would assist you.
Thanks for your time!
Best,
Julia
Dr. Marie replied:
Hi Julia,
It sounds like what you are describing is Bruce's third eyelid. I'm wondering if it is just inflamed or if you are seeing something called a cherry eye. I think a photo would be very helpful. You can send it to photos@askavetquestion.com.
Please know that I can't give you an official diagnosis over the internet but I should be able to give you an idea as to whether you should be worried or not.
I'm heading off to bed now. (It's been a long day at the office!) But I'll check your photo and respond to you in the morning.
Dr. Marie.
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Disclaimer: Although Dr. Marie is a qualified veterinarian, the information found on this site is not meant to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. AskAVetQuestion.com and Dr. Marie do not accept any responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, death, or disease which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site. Do not use information found on this site for diagnosing or treating your pet. Anything you read here is for information only.
Dr. Marie replied:
Thanks for the photos! I've included one here:
It's tough to see exactly what this is, but I agree with you that this doesn't look like a cherry eye.
It looks like there is maybe a little bit of inflammation in Bruce's conjunctiva. From what you have described I wouldn't be too worried.
I would see the vet if there is green discharge from the eye, or if the reddish area is getting larger or bothersome to Bruce.
It is in theory possible to have a tumor in this area, but I can't say I have ever seen one.
I have seen some dogs that simply have a more prominent area on one eye than the other. It's possible that now that you are paying closer attention to the eyes you have noticed it.
If your gut is telling you something is wrong then I'd see the vet, but otherwise I think you're fine to watch it for now.
Dr. Marie.
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Dr. Marie is a veterinarian who practices in a busy animal hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. She created Ask A Vet Question as a resource for good, accurate veterinary advice online. Dr. Marie treats dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats. She has been a vet since 1999.
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