Bluetongue virus is an arbovirus spread to cattle by Culicoides biting midges. It can cause hemorrhagic fever and abortion in cattle. While often asymptomatic, it impacts economics through reduced cattle productivity. There are 26 serotypes with different levels of pathogenicity. The virus is not contagious between cattle but is infectious when spread by midge vectors. Vaccines provide protection against homologous serotypes but multiple vaccines may be needed in endemic areas with several circulating strains. Control relies on limiting animal movement and effective vector control combined with vaccination.