By Mackie, D. P. and Menzies, F. D., Irish Veterinary Journal, 2001
Description
Herd risk factors linked with bovine toxic mastitis include poor house design and inferior management practices, while at the cow level, genetic and physical characteristics along with the occurrence of other clinical and subclinical diseases are considered important. The main aim for preventing toxic mastitis should be to provide the cow with a clean, dry, comfortable environment. Provision of properly designed cow accommodation with frequent removal of slurry from the cows' immediate environment are fundamental in achieving this aim. A well-ventilated house will limit proliferation of the causal organisms, while daily scraping down the back of cubicles will help to minimise teat contamination. Cubicles need to be of an appropriate size for the type of cow and a 10 per cent cubicle excess should be provided for the cow group. Strategies to encourage the cow to remain standing after milking should be employed. Actions should be taken to minimise the incidence of lameness, milk fever and dystocia as reductions in concurrent disease problems will reduce the occurrence of toxic mastitis within the herd. A checklist of target areas requiring scrutiny during on-farm investigations is provided.
Herd risk factors linked with bovine toxic mastitis include poor house design and inferior management practices, while at the cow level, genetic and physical characteristics along with the occurrence of other clinical and subclinical diseases are considered important. The main aim for preventing toxic mastitis should be to provide the cow with a clean, dry, comfortable environment. Provision of properly designed cow accommodation with frequent removal of slurry from the cows' immediate environment are fundamental in achieving this aim. A well-ventilated house will limit proliferation of the causal organisms, while daily scraping down the back of cubicles will help to minimise teat contamination. Cubicles need to be of an appropriate size for the type of cow and a 10 per cent cubicle excess should be provided for the cow group. Strategies to encourage the cow to remain standing after milking should be employed. Actions should be taken to minimise the incidence of lameness, milk fever and dystocia as reductions in concurrent disease problems will reduce the occurrence of toxic mastitis within the herd. A checklist of target areas requiring scrutiny during on-farm investigations is provided.
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