Mastitis in Dairy Cows: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Written by Md. Nazmul Islam Lijan
10 November 2024 6 mins min read English
  • Description
  • Writer

In rural Bangladesh, most people's primary source of income comes from selling cow's milk. Among the various diseases affecting dairy cows, mastitis is one of the most common and harmful diseases. Known by several names like "olan fola," "olan paka," and "than phula," mastitis refers to inflammation of the udder caused by bacteria, fungi, or mycoplasma. This condition leads to udder swelling and reduced milk production.

Causes

  • Infection by bacteria, mycoplasma, or fungi.
  • Dirty udder or teats.
  • Unsanitary conditions in cow sheds or bedding areas.
  • Milking with unclean hands.
  • Injuries to the udder or teats.

Symptoms

  • Sudden redness, firmness, and swelling in the udder.
  • The udder feels hot to the touch.
  • Severe pain in the udder; the cow may have a fever.
  • Milk may appear watery, contain pus, or have traces of blood.
  • Gangrene may develop in severe cases, leading to udder tissue damage or cow death.
  • Septicemia and toxemia can result in fatality.
  • Milk production significantly decreases.
  • Milk appears clotted when filtered through black fabric.
  • Bacteria may contaminate the milk, altering its composition.

Treatment

Begin treatment immediately after detecting symptoms to prevent complications.

  • Apply cold compresses to the affected udder.
  • Administer high-quality antibiotics and anti-inflammatory or steroidal injections as prescribed by a veterinarian.
  • Do not delay contacting the nearest veterinary hospital for proper care.

Prevention

  • Provide cows with nutritious, balanced feed, including fresh grass.
  • Keep cow sheds and bedding areas clean and disinfect them regularly.
  • Wash the udder thoroughly before milking.
  • Ensure hands are clean and disinfected before milking.
  • Feed fresh grass to cows immediately after milking.
  • Protect udders from injury.
  • Spray disinfectant on shed floors every 2\–3 days.
  • Build cow sheds scientifically for better hygiene.
  • Regularly test milk to detect mastitis early for prompt treatment.

  • Skin Care

  • Hair care

  • Dental care

  • Fever reduction

  • Digestive health

  • Soothing burns