Ocular disorders in cattle and buffaloes under field conditions: Diagnostic approaches and treatment outcomes

Authors: Zakaria Abdullah, Mohamed K. Zabady, Nabil Misk (deceased), Ahmed F. Ahmed, Sayed Fathi El-Hawari, and Tarik N. Misk

Ger. J. Vet. Res 2026. vol. 6, Iss. 2 pp:59-73
Doi: https://doi.org/10.51585/gjvr.2026.2.0189

article-picture
Abstract:

This retrospective survey aimed to document the most common ocular disorders in cattle and buffaloes and to evaluate the practicality of gross ocular examination for diagnosis and treatment under field conditions, particularly where referral to specialized facilities is limited by distance or cost. Gross ocular examinations were performed on 266 cattle and buffaloes from rural villages across different governorates of Egypt using a binocular magnifier under natural daylight or focal illumination in shaded or indoor environments. On-site medical and surgical treatments were applied according to the diagnosed conditions. A total of 26 ocular disorders involving the eyelids, third eyelid, conjunctiva, cornea, anterior uvea, and globe were identified. Medical and/or surgical management was successfully implemented in 76.3% of cattle and 50% of buffaloes. Referral to specialized hospitals was required in 10.3% of cattle and 8.2% of buffaloes. No treatment was provided in 10.3% of cattle and 38.2% of buffaloes, either due to owner refusal of surgical intervention or because treatment was unnecessary, as in cases of heterochromia iridis, which was frequently observed in buffaloes. Culling was recommended for 3.1% of cattle and 3.6% of buffaloes. Gross ocular examination represents a simple, practical, and highly effective diagnostic approach for identifying a wide range of ocular disorders in cattle and buffaloes under field conditions. Many conditions can be detected at an early stage and successfully managed on-site, making this approach particularly valuable in resource-limited settings.

Keywords:

Buffaloes, Cattle, Field conditions, Gross ocular examination, Ocular disorders, Treatment outcomes

Statistics:

Article Views: 252
PDF Download: 12