Eye diseases in cows and calves

Eye diseases in cows and calves are relatively common, especially in conditions of crowding, dust, flies or mechanical damage. Here is a clear overview of the main ones, how to recognize and what to do:

The most common eye disease – Pink Eye

Professional name: Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis

Cause:

A bacterium called Moraxella bovis

Signs:

* Excessive tearing

* Blinking / closing the eye

* Sensitivity to light

* Cloudiness or white spot on the cornea

* In severe cases – corneal ulcer and even blindness

How it spreads:

* Flies (main cause)

* Direct contact between animals

* Dust and wind

Treatment:

* Antibiotics (shots or ointments)

* Sometimes covering the eye

* Isolate infected animals

Corneal Ulcers

Name: Corneal Ulcer

Causes:

* Scratches (straw, hay, fences)

* Complication of Pink Eye

Signs:

* Severe pain

* Closed eye

* White/gray patch

Treatment:

* Topical antibiotics

* Sometimes advanced veterinary care (stitches/eye protection)

Non-specific eye inflammation (Conjunctivitis)

Name: Conjunctivitis

Causes:

* Dust

* Ammonia (unventilated barn)

* Minor infections

Signs:

* Redness

* Tears

* Swelling

Treatment:

* Rinsing

* Improving environmental conditions

* Antibiotics as needed

Eye problems in young calves

Especially common:

* Infections due to a weak immune system

* Blocked tear duct

Signs:

* Discharge

* Constantly “wet” eye

Possible complications

* Decreased vision

* Permanent blindness

* Weight loss (because the cow is not eating well)

Prevention – the most important!

* Fly control

* Maintaining cleanliness and ventilation

* Avoiding overcrowding

* Isolate sick animals

* Vaccinations (in some places)

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.