Pathological evaluation of mastitis in goats and changes in milk composition

Abstract

A study was aimed to evaluate the pathological alterations in caprine mastitis, its associated risk factors along with compositional changes in milk. Based on history, clinical signs, alteration in milk composition and somatic cell count (SCC), 246 lactating goats (of various breeds and ages) from 14 field flocks situated at the outskirts of Bhubaneswar (Khordha) district of Odisha were screened for mastitis. The overall prevalence of mastitis was 69.9% with 63.0% for sub-clinical mastitis (SCM) and 6.9% for clinical mastitis (CM). Risk factor analysis pertaining to proportionate distribution among mastitis affected goats (n=172) showed a higher prevalence of mastitis in nondescript goats (−48%), 3 to 4 yr age group (56%), rainy season (57%), goats in larger flocks (85%), cement concrete floor (88%), 3rd lactation (51%), goats with heavy body weight (88%) and goats with history of multiple kidding (55%). There were neutrophilia and lymphopenia along with significant (p<0.05) decrease in sodium, chloride, total protein, globulin and glucose concentrations in mastitis does. Histopathology revealed both interlobular and intralobular fibrosis, replacement of mammary parenchyma with connective tissue proliferation and atrophy of glandular tissue. Alterations in milk composition showed a decrease in fat, solid-not-fat (SNF), lactose, acidity and specific gravity values in mastitis affected goat milk. The results of present study will be helpful for the clinician in assessing the disease severity and application of suitable disease management.