Mastitis in dairy cows

Mastitis is inflammation of the udder and may be clinical or subclinical. In subclinical disease, milk and the udder may appear normal, so observation alone is not sufficient. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Visible and hidden cases

Clinical signs can include abnormal milk and a swollen, painful or reddened udder. Severe disease may involve fever, loss of appetite or shock. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Subclinical infections can raise SCC and reduce milk production without obvious local signs. Microbiological investigation helps identify causes that SCC alone cannot establish. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

One treatment approach does not fit every case

Management depends on severity, cow history and the suspected or confirmed cause. Some clinical samples yield no organisms on culture, illustrating why results require appropriate interpretation. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Do not treat a severe case as a minor milk change or wait for a feeding change to resolve it. Contact your veterinarian promptly for systemic illness, rapid deterioration or marked pain.

Prevention in daily work

• Clean, dry lying areas reduce environmental exposure of teat ends. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
• Consistent milking hygiene includes appropriate preparation, individual towels and hand hygiene. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
• Vacuum, pulsation and rubber components require inspection. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
• Case records and recurrence information help assess the programme. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

Bedding material choice cannot replace maintenance because moisture and organic contamination also matter. No bedding product alone can be assumed to eliminate udder infections. (MSD Veterinary Manual)

See SCC interpretation and animal comfort solutions. Contact AquaBlend for housing advice; consult your veterinarian about diagnosis and treatment.

Educational material, not a substitute for veterinary consultation. Diagnosis and treatment should be agreed with the herd veterinarian.