Definition & Meaning of "red water"

What is "red water"?

Red water, also known as bovine babesiosis or cattle tick fever, is a disease mainly affecting cattle and caused by the parasite Babesia bovis. This parasite is spread through the bite of infected ticks. The condition leads to symptoms such as fever, weakness, loss of appetite, and a decrease red blood cells, which gives affected animals a characteristic reddish urine color. Red water disease can be serious and even deadly if left untreated. Treatment usually involves medications to fight the parasite and supportive care to manage symptoms. Prevention measures include controlling tick populations in areas where cattle graze and providing quick treatment for infected animals to reduce the spread of the disease.