Pinkeye, infectious keratoconjunctivitis

The term pinkeye is often used to refer to any condition resulting in watery, red, or cloudy eyes in goats. There are many causes of eye irritation including air-borne irritants and foreign bodies such as dust or small hay particles; trauma to the eye such as scratching from hay, straw, or wire; or from an infectious agent. Common infectious agents causing pinkeye include mycoplasma, chlamydia, and listeria. Certain viruses and parasites can also cause this condition. In most cases, an infectious agent is responsible and even in cases of irritation or trauma treatment to prevent secondary infection by bacteria is commonly done.

Signs and symptoms

Signs of goats suffering from pinkeye include watery eyes, redness of the eye, swelling of the eyelids, sensitivity to light, and a cloudy cornea. The onset of this disease is quick and it can spread through animal to animal contact.

Treatment, prevention, and control

Isolate affected animals to prevent disease spread. Treatment includes the use of an antibiotic eye ointment, long acting tetracycline, or tylosin injections. If it is not treated early, permanent eye damage or blindness can result. Inspect all new arrivals before mixing with new herdmates.

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