Microbe:
The microbes that cause mastitis are many. Mastitis can be caused
by Bacteria, algae, or even fungus. Common bacteria are Staphlococcus
and E-coli
Kingdoms: Monera, Mycetae, protista
General Overview of Mastitis:
Mastitis is inflamation of the mammary gland. This microbe enters
through the teat end. Many things can lead to these infections.
Exposing cows to moist, unsanitary conditions, or changing their
conditions rapidly can lead to infection.
Prevention, Cures, and/or Treatment of Mastitis:
Keep the health and environment of the cows in top shape. Most
disease-causing microbes are fought off by the cow's own immune
system, but keeping clean is a major factor in keeping a healthy
herd. Since these microbes thrive in moist and dirty conditions,
obviously keep things dry and clean. Insects are also a major
threat to herd sanitation. Although there are vaccinations for
Mastitis, these are no substitute for proper herd management
Diagnosis: Some losses occur without the knowledge of the producer, because some cases are not noticible even though they do reduce the quality and quanity of milk production. Lost milk production is a major sign of mastitis.
Related Sites on the web:
[Basic
Principles of Mastitis Control -- University of Nebraska-Lincoln]
[Mastitis
Control -- University of Nebraska-Lincoln]
Go to the UMC Home Page
The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.
Please send any comments or suggestions to
the Webmaster at: webmaster@mail.crk.umn.edu.
Copyright: ©1995 by the Regents of the University of Minnesota
Last Updated: January 13, 1997
Page Coordinator: Darrin A. Smedsmo