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What are the Signs of Pink Eye in Cattle?

Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee

Pink eye in cattle is usually a bacterial infection. Bovine pink eye can also negatively impact a cow's ability to give milk, and can cause weight loss, starvation, blindness, and injury. It is sually caused by infection of the bacterium Moraxella bovis. Pink eye in cattle can cause sensitivity to light, corneal ulceration, and corneal rupture.

Many strains of the Moxarella bovis bacterium responsible for pink eye in cattle exist, and there is not currently a vaccine to protect against the infection. The toxins that M. bovis produces are generally considered responsible for the severe damage that pink eye can cause to the membranes of cows' eyes.

About two percent of cattle afflicted with pink eye remain permanently and completely blind in the affected eye.
About two percent of cattle afflicted with pink eye remain permanently and completely blind in the affected eye.

Some conditions can make cattle more likely to contract pink eye. Any foreign object that irritates the eye can make cattle more vulnerable to this disease. Bright light and dusty conditions can also contribute to the develop of severe bovine pink eye. Flies are often implicated in the development of bovine pink eye infections, since they can spread the M. bovis bacteria from animal to animal.

The first symptom of pink eye in cattle is generally an increase in eye secretions. Tears may flow freely in animals exhibiting the first signs of bovine pink eye. Pink eye can also make the animal's eyes more sensitive to light, so cows with this infection may begin to squint or blink excessively. The conjunctiva, or membranes of the eye, usually become inflamed.

As the disease progresses, ulcers may form on the cornea of the eye. Ulcers usually appear as white spots on the surface of the eye. In milder cases of infection, the ulcer may begin to heal on its own. In more severe cases, the ulcer may expand in size, eventually causing corneal rupture. If the cornea ruptures, the fluid of the inner eye can leak out, and the remaining eye tissue can collapse into the eye socket.

In most cases, cattle recover from pink eye without permanent vision loss. Recovery usually becomes evident in the final stage of the disease, as the surface of the eye becomes excessively red, then bluish and opaque, and then, finally, returns to normal. About two percent of cattle afflicted with pink eye remain permanently and completely blind in the affected eye. If scarring of the cornea occurs, then a bluish area may remain visible in the center of the eye after the animal recovers. Complete recovery from pink eye in cattle takes between three and five weeks in most cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the initial signs of pink eye in cattle?

Early signs of pink eye in cattle include excessive tearing, squinting, and sensitivity to light. You may also notice redness or inflammation in the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye. These symptoms can quickly escalate if not treated promptly.

Can pink eye in cattle lead to more serious complications?

Yes, if left untreated, pink eye in cattle can lead to serious complications such as corneal ulcers, scarring, or even blindness. According to veterinary studies, severe cases can result in significant weight loss and reduced milk production, impacting the overall productivity of the affected cattle.

How is pink eye in cattle transmitted?

Pink eye in cattle is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or indirectly via flies, which are common vectors. Contaminated equipment or environments can also spread the infection. Good hygiene and fly control measures are essential to prevent the spread of pink eye.

What is the treatment for pink eye in cattle?

Treatment for pink eye in cattle typically involves the use of antibiotic eye drops or ointment to combat the bacterial infection. In more severe cases, a veterinarian may prescribe systemic antibiotics. Additionally, protecting the affected eye from sunlight with patches or shelters can aid in recovery.

Are there any effective preventive measures for pink eye in cattle?

Preventive measures for pink eye in cattle include maintaining good fly control, ensuring proper nutrition to boost immune response, and practicing good sanitation to reduce the risk of infection. Vaccines are also available and can be an effective preventive strategy when used as part of a comprehensive herd health program.

Is pink eye in cattle the same as in humans?

While the symptoms of pink eye in cattle and humans are similar, the causative agents may differ. In cattle, Moraxella bovis is the primary bacterial cause, whereas in humans, several types of bacteria and viruses can be responsible. Cross-species transmission is rare, but basic hygiene practices are recommended to minimize risk.

Discussion Comments

ZipLine

Why do they have viral pink eye vaccines if they don't work?!

I had all my cattle vaccinated for pink eye and one has pink eye right now. He had to get antibiotic injections to treat it. I also bought antibiotic eye spray and I use that twice a day on the affected eye. I think he's recovering fast, except for one white spot on his eye.

I think the flies are the culprit and I'm doing my best to keep them away.

fBoyle

@literally45-- Absolutely, cattle with pink eye will also develop redness. Red or pink eye symptoms usually develop after discharge and squinting though. At least that has been my experience.

I've had two cows with pink eye in the past year. They both developed squinting and eye discharge first. I noticed the discharge first because a part of their face, below the infected eye was always wet.

The first time I had a cow with pink eye, I didn't get a vet in to see her until her eye was very red and inflamed. But the second time around, I had the vet come and treat her as soon as I noticed the discharge and squinting. It's very important to get treatment fast when there is pink eye in cattle because the infection can cause ulceration and scarring very quickly.

literally45

Do cattle develop pink or red eyes as a result of conjunctivitis, just like humans do?

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    • About two percent of cattle afflicted with pink eye remain permanently and completely blind in the affected eye.
      By: branex
      About two percent of cattle afflicted with pink eye remain permanently and completely blind in the affected eye.