Control and Prevention of Clinical and Sub-Clinical Mastitis
Mastitis, which is inflammation in the udder, is a major concern for dairy farmers as it reduces milk quality and yield, along with causing discomfort and health risks for the cows. AHDB Dairy reported mastitis treatment and control to be one of the largest costs to the GB dairy industry and is a significant factor in dairy cow welfare. Treating each case of mastitis can cost between £250 and £300 on average due to vet costs, reduction in yields and loss of milk, but costs vary for mild and severe cases.
A group of eleven farmers are working with Anna Bowen, The Anderson Centre and James Breen, an industry expert in mastitis control to develop a mastitis plan for their individual herds, with the aim of sharing findings with the wider dairy sector.
Group members will be inputting their data into the AHDB Mastitis Pattern Tool (MPL) where James will interpret the results and recommend evidence-based control strategies specific to each farm.
The data that will be captured for analysis include -
- Mastitis incidence
- Bulk somatic cell count (SCC)
- Mastitis origin (dry cow vs lactation)
- Mastitis in first-lactation heifers
- Dry period cure and new infection rates (SCC)
Through the project, farmers will be sending milk samples away for bacterial and antibiotic sensitivity sampling to ensure correct antibiotics are being administered and to check for sensitivity to penicillin.
Six months into the project the group will review their data, identify areas for change and implement further recommendations. By working together, the group members can share experiences, identify common causes within their herds, and develop a more effective plan to tackle mastitis
The project will also contribute to the Sustainable Land Management outcomes including:
- Achieving and promoting high standards of animal health and welfare
- Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases