Eye Growth Disease in Cattle

The Cattlemen's Day Study by Kansas State University veterinarians in 1999 revealed that a majority of cattle suffer from some form of eye condition. Eye growth disease includes all diseases that affect the visual ability of cattle. Producers often experience serious economic losses from eye related diseases and conditions.

  1. Conjunctivitis

    • Conjunctivitis in cattle starts as an inflammation of the tissues around the eye caused by foreign bodies. The eyeball reddens and swells. Cattle with conjunctivitis squint or close their eyes in bright sunlight as a result of an increased light sensitivity.

    Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis

    • Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis, also known as Pinkeye and New Forest Eye starts like a normal case of conjunctivitis, but within one to two days, ulcers develop on the cornea. According to the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, most ulcers heal on their own, however untreated cases can result in permanent blindness.

    Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis

    • It is common for cattle with infectious bovine rhinotracheitis to be treated for conjunctivitis or pinkeye. IBR outbreaks occur commonly among feedlot animals. Cattle run a fever and display eye redness and swelling. However, no ulcers occur.

    Ocular Squamous Cell Carcinoma

    • Ocular squamous cell carcinoma, also known as cancer eye, is the most common cancer in cattle. Certain breeds, including Hereford and Friesian, suffer from higher rates of cancer eye than other cattle. Prevention occurs through selective breeding.

    Bovine Malignant Catarrhal Fever

    • Bovine malignant catarrhal fever is caused by a group of gamma herpes viruses that affect all ruminants. Warning signs include fever, lymph node swelling and discharge from the eyes and nose. Research conducted by the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine indicates that death occurs within two weeks in 99 percent of confirmed cases of catarrhal fever.