Pink Eye
Pink Eye is caused by a bacterial infection in the eye. It usually occurs in the summer months and young cattle with unpigmented eyelids are more susceptible. It can affect one or both eyes, causing pain and weight loss. Flies spread the bacteria between animals.
SIGNS
- Poor appetite
- Weight loss
- Have the affected eye shut (blinking)
- Have a discharge from the affected eye
- Wetting of the face on the affected side
- Have a pink/yellow filled eyeball
- Have lots of flies around her eyes (they are attracted to the discharge)
TREATMENT
- Prompt treatment is essential to reduce long term effects (weight loss and formation of pink eye scar)
- Topical antibiotic –prescribed by vet
- Both eyes should be treated even if only one is affected (treat the unaffected eye first).
- Cover eye with a PinkEye patch.
- Severe cases or those not responsive to topical antibiotic will need veterinary assistance.
PREVENTION
- Fly control (check registration for use in dairy animals)
- Avoid long pasture in dusty conditions and paddocks close to wooded areas.
- Avoid overcrowding.
- Vaccination (Piliguard- only effective against 2/3 strains of Moraxella sp). Needs to be given once, 3-6 weeks prior to onset of the ‘pinkeye season’
ProDairy Member Exclusive – Find Out More