Have you ever wondered why mastitis is such a common challenge for dairy farmers in India? Studies indicate that mastitis affects nearly 50% of lactating cows in India, with an estimated economic loss of ₹7165 per cow per year due to reduced milk yield and quality. This inflammation of the mammary glands not only compromises the health of dairy animals but also leads to annual industry losses exceeding ₹13,000 crores, according to a report by the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI).
Managing mastitis is essential to ensuring the well-being of livestock and the sustainability of dairy farming in India. Let’s understand the causes, symptoms, and effective strategies to prevent this disease.
What is Mastitis?
Mastitis is a bacterial infection of the udder tissue, often caused by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli. It leads to swelling, redness, and a reduction in milk yield. Mastitis can be classified into two main types:
- Clinical Mastitis: Characterized by visible symptoms like udder swelling, abnormal milk, and fever.
- Subclinical Mastitis: No visible symptoms, but detectable through tests like the California Mastitis Test (CMT).
Common Causes of Mastitis in Dairy Animals
- Poor Milking Hygiene:
– Contaminated milking equipment.
Dirty milking environments.