Mastitis in Dairy Cows

Good teat preparation not only helps to prevent a mastitis infection, it can also have a positive effect on milk yields and quality. Pre-milking teat disinfection also helps improve the storage quality and the flavor of the milk.

Effective teat preparation involves three key steps: Cleaning, disinfection and stimulation. The pre-milking protocol plays a crucial role in stimulating milk flow and enhancing the milk let-down reflex. Beyond supporting a mastitis management program, pre-milking teat cleaning and disinfection positively impact milk quality. They extend the milk's shelf life and enhance its flavor.

In order to reduce cross-contamination, clusters should be disinfected between milking each cow. Ideally, this practice should be extended to the whole herd. ;

Disinfecting of the clusters should occur after milking cows with mastitis and high somatic cells counts but before milking freshly calved cows. To minimize risks, it's important to milk cows with mastitis or elevated somatic cell counts at the end of the milking process.

The most effective action against germs is disinfecting teats before and after milking, which help prevent cross contamination.

• Kill Microorganisms: Prevent new infections by eliminating microorganisms on teats immediately after removing the liners.
• Create a Barrier: Disinfection establishes a protective barrier on the teat that remains effective for more than 30 minutes depending on the product.
• Cosmetic Benefits: Depending on product formula, post milking disinfectant can contribute ;to maintaining good skin condition for teats.

When selecting a post-dip product, consider factors such as the specific issue, teat skin condition and the farm’s climate and bedding.