Pinkeye, a highly contagious disease in cattle, can spread rapidly if not promptly addressed. This bacterial infection, which primarily affects the eyes, can lead to irritation, excessive tearing, and in severe cases, blindness. Given its mode of transmission through direct contact and flies, an outbreak can swiftly engulf an entire herd. Therefore, early detection and immediate action are crucial, as managing it becomes significantly more challenging once it takes hold.
While pinkeye can strike at any time, it often follows a seasonal pattern. Cases typically surge in the spring, peak during the hot summer months, and gradually subside by fall. This pattern is a result of the bacteria’s preference for warm, moist conditions and the environmental factors that contribute to pinkeye, such as dust, tall grasses, and an increase in face flies, which are more prevalent in the warmer months. Cattle with lighter-colored eyes, like Herefords and Charolais, are particularly at risk due to their sensitivity to sunlight, making pinkeye a significant concern during bright, sunny days. Understanding this seasonal pattern can help cattle owners prepare and take preventive measures in advance.
Once pinkeye sets in, treatment can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring careful monitoring and medical intervention. Even mild cases can quickly escalate, so isolating infected cattle is crucial to prevent further spread. Quarantining affected animals not only protects the rest of the herd but also gives the infected cattle a better chance at healing without reinfection. The earlier you catch and treat pinkeye, the better the outcome—not just for the individual cow but for your entire operation.
Summer pneumonia, sometimes referred to as pasture pneumonia, is a disease that is usually observed in calves on pasture late in summer. It can affect calves from one month old to even five months old who have yet to be weaned. The issue with this disease is that little is known about it, and it can pop up from nowhere.
