Expert: Karin - 12/12/2011

Question
Hi,
I currently have a Dexter heifer whos eyes will "shake" back and forth. They have been doing it ever since she was born and we do not know why. She is perfectly healthy and the only reason I want to know why her eyes are doing it is we may sell her. Its not an obvious shaking until you look closely but it looks as though it is just her pupils are shaking rapidly back and forth. None of our other cows have had this happen. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.
Grace

Answer
Hi Grace,

It sounds like some sort genetic malady or possibly a consequence of some mineral deficiency or toxicity that her dam had, since you say she's had it from birth.  But to be honest this is out of my expertise, and something I suggest you go see a local large animal veterinarian about if you're really concerned about it, or if you want some information on what could've caused it.  

But, if it doesn't seem to hurt her, then it's nothing to worry about, just some quirk you have to live with and get used to, since obviously she's used to it already as well.  It's hard to say whether she'll be hard to sell or not, because you may get some people who are interested in owning animals that have some strange quirks (though they, in themselves, can be few and far between.)  If you make aware to the buyers that it's a condition that isn't slowing her down, then it may increase the chance of selling her, but who knows.

Good luck, and hope you find the right information about her.

-Karin