Mastitis in cattle: treatment basics

Mastitis is inflammation of the udder, and it may affect one quarter or more. A cow may have a swollen, hot, firm, or painful quarter, while the milk may contain flakes, clots, wateriness, or blood. Some cows also become dull, stop eating, or develop a fever. The veterinarian considers these findings, milking history, and the farm's treatment protocol. Mild local disease and a cow with whole-body illness need different levels of support and monitoring.

Separate and identify the affected cow according to farm biosecurity procedures, and contact the herd veterinarian promptly. Treatment may include a veterinary-selected medicine placed in the udder, medicine given to the whole animal, fluids, pain relief, and frequent careful milking when advised. Use clean equipment and follow the exact dose, route, timing, and handling instructions. Record every treatment and keep milk from treated animals out of the food supply until the veterinarian confirms it is suitable.

Treat a cow as an urgent veterinary case when she is weak, feverish, dehydrated, off feed, unable to stand, or producing a markedly abnormal quarter. Rapidly worsening udder swelling, severe pain, or a cold or dark quarter also requires immediate advice. Do not delay while trying household products or leftover antibiotics; the wrong treatment can mask disease and complicate herd control.

Ask which quarter is affected, whether a sample is needed, what supportive care is appropriate, how to manage milking, and exactly when milk and the animal can return to the normal herd process.