Abstract
Aim:The present study was aimed to investigate the relationship of udder shape, teat-end shape, teat length, and teat diameter with intra-mammary infection in Jersey crossbred cows under hot-humid climate.Materials and Methods:A total of 24 lactating Jersey crossbred cows were evaluated for udder shape (pendulous/regular) and teat-end shape (flat/inverted/pointed) by visual examination, while teat length and teat diameter were measured using vernier caliper. Monthly milk sampling was done for 4 months of duration. Few quarters were found as blind or non-functional and so, a total of 366 quarter wise milk samples were collected at the monthly interval and subjected to somatic cell count (SCC) microscopically. The data on SCC were transformed into log scale and analyzed.Results:There was a significant (p<0.01) effect of udder shape and teat-end shape on SCC level. The mean SCC level for pendulous udder was significantly (p<0.05) higher as compared to the regular shaped udder. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) a higher level of mean SCC was found in flat teat-end shape. A significant (p<0.01) correlation was found between SCC and teat length as well as teat diameter.Conclusion:In conclusion, pendulous udder, flat and inverted teat-end, very long and thick teat were more susceptible to intra-mammary infection in Jersey crossbred cows and these traits must be considered accordingly while selecting dairy animals for future milk production.
Highlights
Intra-mammary infection is an imperative threat affecting the dairy sector
In conclusion, pendulous udder, flat and inverted teat-end, very long and thick teat were more susceptible to intra-mammary infection in Jersey crossbred cows and these traits must be considered while selecting dairy animals for future milk production
While most risk factors associated with management and the environment are addressed by introducing good management and hygiene measures, selecting dairy cows, which are less susceptible to mastitis is a control measure worthy of consideration [3]
Summary
Intra-mammary infection is an imperative threat affecting the dairy sector. Udder health disorders cause profound economic loss and have a major influence on dairy cow’s welfare and productivity [1]. While most risk factors associated with management and the environment are addressed by introducing good management and hygiene measures, selecting dairy cows, which are less susceptible to mastitis is a control measure worthy of consideration [3]. Dairy cattle breeding programs are mainly aimed at milk production traits with increasing focus on conformation traits [4]. Udder and teat conformation traits are highly heritable [5] and could serve as a marker trait for selection to reduce mastitis in dairy cattle. Some studies have revealed udder and teat conformation as risk factors for intra-mammary
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