Mastitis in heifers

Udder health is typically overlooked but critically important in heifers. Mastitis pathogens of the contagious as well as environmental groups have been implicated in mastitis in heifers. Procedures considered for control of heifer mastitis include prepartum treatment in primigravid heifers, separating preweaned calves to prevent suckling, fly control, and segregation of pregnant heifers from dry cows. Further investigation is needed before general recommendations can be made relative to prepartum treatment of primigravid heifers. An improved understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of heifer mastitis will aid in expanding and improving control measures.