Mastitis

Mastitis is a major and costly problem for the New Zealand dairy industry. Significant productivity gains can be made through reduction of the numbers of clinical mastitis events.  Find out more about the SAMM plan (Seasonal Approach to Managing Mastitis) and other ways of managing this condition.

SAMM plan

DairyNZ conducts research that underpins information available in the Seasonal Approach to Managing Mastitis – the SAMM plan.

For practical advice and solutions for managing mastitis on a seasonal basis get the booklet ‘Seasonal Approach to Managing Mastitis’. Click Here to view a PDF and order online.

DairyNZ studies that have contributed to the SAMM Plan are: -

• Dry Cow Treatment. We have examined the effect of blanket or selective dry cow treatment, and use of Teatseal, on incidence of mastitis during the dry period and the following season
• Somatic Cell Count (SCC) management in early and late lactation. We have examined the factors responsible for high SCC in early & late season.
• Teat spraying. We have examined the effect of pre-milking and post-milking teat spraying on incidence of mastitis. Post milking disinfection typically reduces the number of new infections by 50-60% and helps prevent the spread of contagious bacteria.
• Heifer mastitis. We are currently examining ways to prevent heifer mastitis.

Managing Mastitis

For a practical guide providing more indepth advice on mastitis management get ‘Managing Mastitis - A practical guide for New Zealand dairy farmers’ from LIC.

The Cost of Mastitis - Final Report
A report was produced for the National Mastitis Advisory Committee 2006 titled The Cost of Mastitis Final Report 2005/2006.