Detecting mastitis early pays off

Early, accurate detection offers a raft of benefits for cows, staff and a farm's bottom line, the company says.

"The sooner you know which cows are infected, the sooner you can implement appropriate treatment, and the faster infected cows will be able to return to normal milk production.

"A good clinical mastitis detection system also stops infected milk going into the bulk supply, protecting your bulk tank cell count and bactoscan readings.

"You will reduce the risk of cross infection within the herd by limiting the amount of bacteria that contaminate the cups used to milk infected cows; cell counts will reduced faster, and there will be fewer repeat cases of clinical mastitis."

New Zealand cows are not usually stripped before milking, nor is there typically a great deal of teat preparation prior to cups on. Milking staff are thus a key resource in spotting signs of clinical mastitis, Skellerup says.

In-line milk detectors such as Skellerup's Ambic Vision 2000 effectively identify cows with clinical mastitis. Such equipment, along with appropriate staff training and procedures, will optimise mastitis control.

The Vision 2000 is a simple, effective device for identifying mastitis clots in milk during milking. It can be easily installed in the long milk tube, and is designed to give a clear view of any clots on the screen. It also picks up dirt, straw or other detritus which helps encourage improved teat preparation prior to milking.

Provided the detector is kept clean, it should not interfere with vacuum stability or milk flow during milking.

Each detector must be checked after every cow is milked.

If clots are present, the cow should immediately be examined for clinical mastitis and treated accordingly.

For more information on the Ambic Vision 2000 in-line milk detector and improved milk hygiene, visit www.dairybestpractice.co.nz or talk to your local rural retailer.