Types of Mastitis in Cows

Clinical mastitis produces visible changes, such as a swollen or painful quarter, abnormal milk, or changes in the cow’s general condition. Subclinical mastitis may have no obvious outward signs, but testing can show inflammation or altered milk quality. Both forms can affect udder function and need appropriate veterinary assessment.

Mastitis may also be described by its course. Acute disease appears quickly, chronic disease continues or returns over time, and recurrent disease develops in separate episodes. Causes can include infectious organisms, teat injury, milking equipment problems or environmental contamination. The correct classification helps guide testing, isolation and treatment decisions.

A veterinarian or trained dairy professional should examine the cow and affected quarter. Milk sampling can help identify an organism and support a suitable treatment plan. Follow the prescribed medicine, milking instructions and withdrawal guidance exactly; milk from a treated cow may need to be kept out of the food supply according to veterinary advice. Check milking hygiene, teat condition, bedding and equipment, and keep useful records of episodes.

Seek veterinary help promptly if the cow has marked udder swelling, abnormal milk, fever, weakness, reduced appetite, dehydration, difficulty standing or a sudden drop in milk production. A cow that appears seriously unwell may need urgent supportive care as well as treatment for the udder. Do not rely on milk appearance alone, because subclinical inflammation may require testing to detect.

Is this clinical or subclinical mastitis? Should milk be cultured? Which quarter is affected? What hygiene or equipment issue might contribute? How should the cow and milk be managed during treatment?