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Subclinical mastitis in ewes and its effect on lamb performance
D H Keisler1, M L Andrews, R J Moffatt
1Department of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211.
Journal of Animal Science
|June 1, 1992
Summary
The California mastitis test (CMT) is less effective than somatic cell count (SCC) for detecting subclinical mastitis in ewes. Lamb performance was not significantly impacted by ewe milk quality or mastitis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Dairy Science
Background:
- Subclinical mastitis in ewes poses a challenge to dairy production.
- Accurate detection methods are crucial for managing herd health.
- Assessing the impact on lamb performance is important for economic viability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the California mastitis test (CMT) with direct microscopic somatic cell count (DMSCC) and somatic cell count (SCC) for subclinical mastitis detection in ewes.
- To determine the incidence of subclinical mastitis and associated organisms.
- To evaluate the relationship between milk quality, subclinical mastitis, and lamb performance.
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted involving ewes.
- California mastitis test (CMT), direct microscopic somatic cell count (DMSCC), and somatic cell count (SCC) were used for mastitis detection.
- Bacterial cultures were performed on milk samples.
- Lamb weights were regressed against milk quality and mastitis scores.
Main Results:
- Somatic cell count (SCC) scores strongly correlated with direct microscopic somatic cell count (DMSCC) (90% variation explained).
- California mastitis test (CMT) scores showed weaker correlations with DMSCC (26%) and SCC (30-34%).
- Subclinical mastitis incidence ranged from 17% to 50%. Staphylococcus species were the most common bacteria isolated.
- Lamb performance showed minimal impact from ewe's milk quality or subclinical mastitis.
Conclusions:
- Somatic cell count (SCC) and direct microscopic somatic cell count (DMSCC) are more reliable indicators of subclinical mastitis in ewes than the California mastitis test (CMT).
- Subclinical mastitis incidence in ewes can be significant, with Staphylococcus species being a primary concern.
- Lamb growth performance, particularly in systems with supplemental feeding, is not substantially affected by milk quality or subclinical mastitis in ewes.