Afecciones oculares en Bovinos. Reporte de casos

Abstract

The main objective of this Final Degree Project (TFG) is to address ocular diseases affecting cattle, analyzing their etiology, predisposing factors, diagnostic methods, treatment, and prevention proposals. The project reviewed infectious causes, such as Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis (IBK), Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR), and Listeriosis, parasitic causes, such as Thelaziosis, and finally non-infectious causes, which include ocular trauma and neoplasms, principally Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). The methodology was based on a review of updated literature and practical experience acquired during the professional practice guidance (Orientación en Práctica Profesional - OPP) at the “La Pinki” farm in Ataliva Roca, La Pampa, where various clinical cases in cattle were documented and analyzed. The analysis of results confirmed that ocular diseases significantly impact productivity and animal welfare, leading to substantial losses due to reduced weight gain, treatment costs, management expenses, and the culling/slaughter of affected animals. It was determined that these conditions have a complex multifactorial etiology in which genetics (vulnerability of the Hereford breed), environment (solar exposure, drought, wind, flies, etc.), nutrition, management, host immunity, and etiological agents interact. This work emphasizes the necessity of implementing comprehensive prevention protocols, including active surveillance and early treatment by the producer, genetic selection of animals, and biosecurity-based preventive strategies, aiming to ensure cattle health without compromising the use of the breed.