Cow having mastitis what the cure?

Question

Sathiyavarsha K · Answer

If a cow has mastitis (inflammation of the udder, often due to bacterial infection), prompt treatment is essential to prevent milk loss and further complications. Here’s a structured approach:

1. Identify the Type

Clinical mastitis: Visible swelling, redness, heat, pain, and sometimes abnormal milk (flakes, clots, or watery).

Subclinical mastitis: No visible signs in the udder, but milk yield decreases and somatic cell count increases.

2. Immediate Care

Isolate the cow to prevent infection spreading.

Ensure hygiene: Wash the udder with clean water before and after milking.

Stop milking affected quarter if severely infected, or milk gently to avoid pain.

3. Medical Treatment

Antibiotics: Use intramammary antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian. Common types include:

Cloxacillin

Oxytetracycline

Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid

Anti-inflammatory drugs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.

4. Supportive Care

Frequent milking: Mild cases may require more frequent milking to remove infected milk.

Udder massage: Gently massage to improve blood flow.

Nutrition: Ensure the cow has high-quality feed and clean water to support recovery.

5. Preventive Measures

Maintain clean housing and milking environment.

Disinfect milking equipment regularly.

Use proper milking techniques: clean hands/teat and post-milking teat dip.

Avoid stress and overmilking, as they can increase susceptibility.

Mastitis can worsen quickly, so immediate veterinary intervention is crucial. Early treatment significantly improves recovery and reduces milk loss.