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My English Bulldog's cherry eye is swollen. What can I do to help?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 50 lbs

I have an English Bulldog and she has a cherry eye. Recently I can tell it’s bothering her. It looks swollen and getting hard for her to open. Could it be the cherry bothering her? Is there anything I can give her to help?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 11th, 2018

Poor Sophie! I can't tell much from this photo as she has her eyes closed, but if she has a cherry eye, this is something that needs to be surgically fixed - otherwise, it will continue to cause irritation and predispose her to developing "dry eye" (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). If you aren't able to have it fixed, she may need an antibiotic eye ointment or something similar to help with the irritation.

I would recommend taking Sophie to the vet for a proper eye exam. He/she can discuss treatment options with you depending on how things look.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on March 1st, 2018
Oh goodness. The skin around Sophie’s eyes looks infected and painful. I would highly encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. She likely needs antibiotic therapy and maybe some topical medication to soothe it as well. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on June 7th, 2019
Poor Sophie! Yes, I recommend to have her examined. The veterinarian may prescribe an eye drop to put on that blister. While you are there, discuss treatments for allergies including antihistamines and omega 3 fatty acids. Go ahead and have Sophie wear an elizabethan collar to prevent her from rubbing the eye which may make it worse. make sure the gently wipe away and discharge with a moistened, clean cotton ball. Although allergies are the most common cause, the veterinarian will check her for other lesions which could indicate an autoimmune condition which causes similar lesions. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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