Environmental mastitis is caused by bacteria such as Strep. uberis and coliforms that survive in the cow’s environment. High numbers of these bacteria may contaminate teats, especially if udders are wet and exposed to mud/manure, which can occur when cows are calving.

Guideline 1 provides practical information on:

• Difference between environmental and cow-associated (contagious) mastitis
• Ideal calving environments
• Acceptable numbers of clinical cases around calving
• Bringing cows in for their first milking after calving
• Preparing udders for milking

Technote 1 provides technical information for farmers and advisers on:

• Different types of bacteria that cause environmental mastitis, and best ways to deal with them
• Suitable bedding materials for calving pads that reduce risk of mastitis
• Risk factors for Strep. uberis infections
• Preventing mastitis in high risk cows