Identify and Control Mastitis in Dairy Cows

Reader Contribution by Steve Judge and Bob-White Systems
Published on April 2, 2018
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A few words about mastitis and cows. Full disclosure: I am not a veterinarian nor do I have any formal training or expertise in animal health beyond what I have learned through practical experience during my more than 40 years as a dairy farmer. For the purposes of this writing, I am going to assume you aren’t milking very many cows and that you are probably fairly inexperienced with mastitis. The first thing to do if you notice any health issues with any of your animals, pets or livestock, is to call your vet.  What follows is simply how I deal with my cows.

Expert Tips for Controlling Mastitis on a Small Dairy

Test often. Probably the best way to avoid or control mastitis in your cows is to have their milk tested regularly so you can spot problems quickly. First do what is called a tank test.  Mix your cows’ milk together and test the entire batch.  If the sample tests positive for any signs of mastitis or has an abnormally high “somatic cell count” then sample and test each cow individually so you can identify and isolate the problem cow and her milk.  Once you identify the problem cow or cows, test the milk from each quarter so you can identify the problem quarter or quarters.  Then follow your vet’s recommendations.

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