Surgical Management of Third Eyelid Gland Prolapse (‘Cherry Eye’) in a Rabbit: A Rare Clinical Case Report

Prolapse of the third eyelid gland, commonly known as cherry eye, is well documented in dogs but is considered uncommon in rabbits. The third eyelid gland contributes substantially to tear production, and its excision predisposes animals to keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Therefore, surgical repositioning rather than removal is recommended. This report describes the successful surgical management of cherry eye in a one-year-old New Zealand White rabbit using the modified Morgan’s pocket technique. The rabbit presented with a soft, reddish-pink swelling at the medial canthus of the right eye, accompanied by mild conjunctival hyperemia and ocular discharge. Ophthalmic examination confirmed prolapse of the third eyelid gland without corneal and decided surgical management. Surgery performed under general anaesthesia. General anaesthesia was achieved using xylazine (6 mg/kg IM) and ketamine (60 mg/kg IM) with careful monitoring of heart rate, respiration, and temperature. Detailed anatomical considerations, including the location of the medial canthal ligament and conjunctival vascular supply, guided careful dissection. A conjunctival pocket was created to reposition and secure the prolapsed gland. The incision was closed with absorbable sutures, and postoperative care included systemic antibiotics, anti-inflammatory therapy, and topical eye drops. The rabbit recovered uneventfully, resumed normal feeding within 24 hours, and showed complete resolution of clinical signs without recurrence during a 30-day follow-up. This case demonstrates that cherry eye in rabbits can be effectively managed through surgical repositioning using the modified Morgan’s pocket technique, preserving glandular function and ensuring a favourable clinical outcome.