06/05/2025
Mastitis in Ruminant.
Mastitis is one of the most common and costly diseases in dairy animals. It affects the udder (mammary gland), reduces milk production, and can even put the animal’s life at risk if left untreated.
What is Mastitis?
Mastitis is an inflammation of the udder, usually caused by bacteria. It can be painful for the animal and leads to poor milk quality and reduced quantity – meaning economic losses for the farmer and stress for the animal.
Types of Mastitis:
1. Clinical Mastitis:
Obvious symptoms like swelling, redness, heat, pain in the udder, and abnormal milk (clots, discoloration, foul smell).
2. Subclinical Mastitis:
No visible signs, but the milk has a high Somatic Cell Count (SCC). This is the most common and most overlooked type.
3. Chronic Mastitis:
Long-term infection that flares up repeatedly. Harder to treat and often results in permanent damage.
When is Mastitis Most Common?
Early lactation (just after calving or kidding)
During the dry period (when the udder is not being milked)
Poor hygiene in the barn or during milking
Stressful conditions like cold, heat, or overcrowding
Signs to Watch For:
Pain, swelling, or heat in the udder
Milk that is clotted, bloody, yellow, or smells bad
Drop in milk production
Fever or lethargy in the animal
Treatment:
Antibiotics – intramammary and/or systemic (veterinarian guided)
Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Frequent milking of the affected quarter to clear infection
Fluids and nutrition to support recovery
Never use antibiotics without veterinary advice – misuse can lead to resistance and more problem.
Prevention Tips:
Keep the udder clean and dry
Ensure milking equipment is sanitized
Use dry cow therapy at drying-off
Provide clean
