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Scanning electron microscopy-aided observations on and therapy of teat canal infections

J H Du Preez

    The Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
    |December 1, 1979
    PubMed

    Insights

    Local teat canal therapy effectively eliminated Staphylococcus aureus in machine-milked cows. This treatment reduced bacterial colonization and resolved subclinical mastitis, offering a promising strategy for bovine mastitis control.

    Area of Science:

    • Veterinary Medicine
    • Microbiology
    • Animal Science

    Background:

    • Bovine mastitis is a significant economic concern in dairy farming.
    • Staphylococcus aureus is a primary pathogen causing mastitis.
    • Effective treatment strategies for bovine mastitis are crucial for herd health.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the efficacy of local teat canal therapy for Staphylococcus aureus colonization in machine-milked cows.
    • To assess the impact of teat canal therapy on subclinical mastitis.
    • To investigate the presence of Staphylococcus aureus within teat canal structures.

    Main Methods:

    • Sampling of teat canals and milk from machine-milked cows.
    • Bacteriological culture for Staphylococcus aureus detection.
    • Somatic cell count analysis of milk samples.
    • Administration of sodium cloxacillin via teat canal therapy.
    • Scanning electron microscopy of teat canal tissues.

    Main Results:

    • Staphylococcus aureus colonized 51 out of 68 teat canals.
    • Only 31 colonized quarters yielded S. aureus in milk cultures.
    • Six quarters with subclinical mastitis resolved after teat canal therapy.
    • Bacteriological cultures were negative for at least one week post-treatment.
    • Microscopy revealed cocci within teat canal epithelial crevices.

    Conclusions:

    • Local teat canal therapy is effective in eradicating Staphylococcus aureus from infected quarters.
    • This therapeutic approach can successfully treat subclinical bovine mastitis.
    • Teat canal therapy represents a valuable tool for controlling bovine mastitis.

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