Infectious Diseases:
* Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD): This highly contagious virus can cause various eye issues, including corneal ulcers, keratitis, and even blindness.
* Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis (IBK): Also known as "pink eye," this highly contagious bacterial infection causes inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, leading to severe vision problems if untreated.
* Moraxella bovis: A bacterium that causes pinkeye (IBK), leading to corneal ulcers and potential blindness.
* Mycoplasma bovis: Another bacterium that can cause keratitis, leading to vision loss.
* Leptospirosis: This bacterial disease can cause conjunctivitis and even retinal degeneration, leading to vision loss.
* Foot-and-Mouth Disease: While less common, this viral disease can sometimes cause lesions in the eyes, leading to potential blindness.
* Ophthalmia Neonatorum: This is a common bacterial infection in calves, which can cause blindness if untreated. It is usually caused by E. coli.
* Contagious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis (CBK): Also known as "Mad Cow Disease," this is a fatal neurological disease that can cause blindness due to brain damage.
Non-Infectious Diseases:
* Trauma: Physical injuries to the eye, such as from fighting or foreign objects, can cause blindness.
* Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in Vitamin A, Selenium, and other essential nutrients can lead to various eye problems, including blindness.
* Congenital Defects: Some cattle are born with eye defects that can cause vision problems or blindness.
* Cataracts: These cloudy spots on the lens can obstruct vision and lead to blindness.
* Glaucoma: This condition involves increased pressure inside the eye, damaging the optic nerve and causing blindness.
* Retinal Detachment: This is a serious condition where the retina detaches from the back of the eye, leading to blindness.
* Cancer: Certain types of eye cancers can lead to blindness.
* Toxicities: Exposure to certain chemicals or plants can damage the eye and lead to blindness.
Important Note: If you observe any signs of eye problems in your cattle, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can often prevent vision loss and save the animal's sight.