Cattle on grass in the summertime is supposed to be the “easy” time of year – however, it can quickly turn into a difficult time if it requires roundups and treatments.
A few cases of pinkeye can quickly turn into a herd problem if left untreated, so early intervention is definitely recommended. Antibiotics, fly control, and eye protection (eye patches or suturing of the third eyelid) are the best for not only slowing the spread, but also avoiding scarring or blindness.
Pinkeye prevention and treatment can be very frustrating and requires a multi-angled approach which includes various approaches at fly control (pour/spray-ons, salt & mineral additives, fly tags, & some novel fly vaccines are being developed), pasture management (controlling weeds, clipping seeded out grass, providing shade to avoid grouping & eye injury from tail switching), and vaccination.
This content was provided by the Harmony Veterinary Clinic Team located in Harmony, MN. For more information, contact 507-886-6321.
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