Udder health dynamics in cow-based calf rearing of organic dairy cows

Cow-based calf rearing systems, in which calves are suckled by their dams or foster cows, are gaining increasing interest as a comparatively natural form of rearing. However, the effects of suckling on udder health are still insufficiently researched, or contradictory information is available.

In this cross-sectional study, clinical and bacteriological udder health parameters were investigated in 249 organic dairy cows (dams and foster cows) from 15 farms in northern Germany. Quarter milk samples and clinical udder examinations were carried out at the beginning and end of the suckling period.

The results show that the mastitis pathogen spectrum can be extended to include pathogens that are transmissible between calves and cows, which increases the risk of intramammary infections with Staphylococcus aureus and atypical mastitis pathogens of the oral cavity of calves, such as Pasteurella multocida. Clinically, there was an increase in teat skin alterations and injuries, and the teats became longer towards the end of the suckling period, especially in foster cows and older animals, indicating mechanical stress due to suckling.

The cow-based calf rearing method, which is popular among consumers, presents specific challenges that need to be carefully considered and addressed through appropriate health monitoring and management strategies.