Infection Coming From a Goat's Eyes & Nose
When a goat displays symptoms of weepy eyes, often accompanied by discharge or redness, it is known as conjunctivitis or pinkeye. Not only will the pinkeye virus or bacteria settle in the eyes, but it will cause tears, sometimes creating sensitivity or redness on that side of the face. Because goats (especially kids) are prone to upper respiratory infections, nasal discharge is a common occurrence and is often accompanied by other symptoms including coughing and sneezing.
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Conjunctivitis
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Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is the inflammation or infection of the eyelid's membrane lining. Different microorganisms can cause pinkeye and will either be in one or both eyes. Pinkeye is contagious and will spread from the goat to other animals, including people. Therefore, use caution when handling an animal with this disease.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
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Just as in a human being, conjunctivitis in a goat will cause repeated blinking, redness and inflammation, opaque or cloudiness of the eye, excessive tearing and aversion to bright sunlight. Sometimes an ulcer may develop or in more severe cases, temporary or permanent blindness may occur.
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Treatment for Conjunctivitis
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Because the spreading of this disease comes through direct contact with each other or through flies or dust that carry the virus or bacteria, it is best to isolate the infected goat from the rest of the herd or place it in a shady, clean and dry place.
In addition, antibiotics that are either injected or placed directly in the eye are prescribed. Depending on the severity of the pinkeye, the goat will either receive a triple antibiotic ophthalmic ointment, Banamine injections, penicillin drops, a combination of these or stronger antibiotics. Prior to medicating the goat, clean the face and eye of any debris.
Upper Respiratory Infection
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Should the goat be affected in its nose, trachea, bronchi or lungs and show symptoms including nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, raised body temperature and loss of appetite, contact a veterinarian immediately. Sometimes the virus or bacteria that causes the pinkeye infection also affects the upper respiratory tract.
Nasal Symptoms and Treatment
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Should the goat have a yellowish nasal discharge, this could indicate pneumonia. If the discharge is clear or white it is usually allergy-related. Sometimes the nasal discharge will be accompanied by fever but not always. Antibiotics should be used only when fever or inflammation is present. Consulting a veterinarian to accurately diagnose and treat the sick goat is best.
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References
- Photo Credit goats. image by Saskia Massink from Fotolia.com
