Mastitis is always a concern around the dairy, but staying extra vigilant at dry-off and during the dry period is important for preventing clinical infections. While this downtime is essential for udder rejuvenation, there is less opportunity to monitor udder health and identify mastitis in dry cows when trips to the parlor are on pause.
Here are eight management practices you can add to your dry cow program to help reduce mastitis cases, keep the udder healthy and boost milk production in the next lactation.
1. Treat subclinical mastitis at dry-off
About 60% of mastitis cases that occur during a cow’s lactation can be traced back to the dry period. A dry cow antibiotic tube can treat current subclinical cases and may help prevent new infections during the dry period. It is best to select an antibiotic mastitis treatment that targets gram-positive bacteria, which are the most common pathogens over the dry period.
For producers looking to reduce antibiotic use and associated costs, selective dry cow therapy (SDCT), the practice of using antibiotics to only treat cows that likely have mastitis, is an option to explore with your veterinarian.
2. Use an internal teat sealant to supplement the natural keratin plug
More than 25% of cows don’t form a keratin plug at dry-off, leaving the quarters vulnerable to mastitis-causing pathogens. Similar to the keratin plug, an internal teat sealant creates a physical barrier between the udder and bacteria in the environment, preventing the entry of mastitis-causing pathogens. For best results, always follow teat sealant administration and removal guidelines closely.
3. Prevent coliform mastitis through vaccination
Coliforms are environmental bacteria that are often found in manure and bedding, and are associated with up to 70% of severe mastitis cases. Dry-off is a good time to ensure cows are up-to-date on all vaccinations, including a coliform mastitis vaccine. The use of a coliform mastitis vaccine has been shown to reduce the incidence of clinical coliform cases by up to 81%.
4. Make sure high-producing cows are ready to be dried off
At dry-off, high-producing cows are at greater risk for udder engorgement, milk leakage and subsequent mastitis. Studies have shown cows giving anywhere from 33 pounds and up are at an increased risk of leaking.
An effective approach is to provide cows with an oral mineral bolus designed to reduce milk production. Research has also shown that this method can reduce somatic cell count and the risk of clinical mastitis in the cow’s next lactation.
5. Take care of the environment
When cows are in the dry period, it’s important not to forget about them. Keep dry cows clean, cool and comfortable to maintain healthy udders and fetuses. These are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Heat abatement: Helping dry cows stay cool is just as important as keeping lactating cows cool, especially as dairy cows can experience heat stress beginning at 68ºF. Research has shown calves born to heat-stressed dams are more likely to have lower birthweights, compromised immune function and lower milk yields when they enter the milking herd. Proper shade, fans and sprinklers can keep your dry cows cool.
- Ventilation: Well-ventilated buildings prevent high humidity in the winter and heat buildup in the summer. Signs of poor ventilation that require attention include air that smells like ammonia, animals that are coughing, experiencing nasal discharge or open-mouth breathing. A cow’s hair coat should be free of moisture when you run your fingers through it.
- Stocking density: Dry cows require significantly more space than lactating animals. Ensure they have enough space to eat and rest, while keeping stocking density at or below 85%.
- Cleanliness: Remove manure as soon as possible and keep plenty of fresh bedding under animals. Manage water tanks, feeding areas and walkways to eliminate standing water or manure.
6. Ensure nutritional needs are met
At the start of lactation, cows rely on the mobilization of body fat storage to counteract the negative energy balance they often experience after calving. To ensure nutritional needs are met during the dry period, it is helpful to work with your nutritionist to develop an appropriate ration to meet the specific needs of each stage of the dry period.
Studies have shown that feeding a dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD) diet during the dry period results in increased dry matter intake in early lactation, increased milk production, fewer fresh cow health events and improved reproductive performance.
7. Host regular trainings to reduce protocol drift
Every good dry cow program should start with the right team of people. Avoiding complacency and following protocols reduces procedural drift that can creep up for any number of reasons. To ensure employees are as compliant as possible, consider the following:
- Show employees how you want things done and explain what you are doing. Have occasional refresher courses to remind the experienced workers of the correct procedures.
- Help employees understand the “why.” People are more likely to continue established procedures if they understand why they are doing them.
- Clearly post protocols in the language your workers speak to enhance understanding.
8. Regularly check in with your veterinarian
The right dry cow program isn’t one-size-fits-all, and protocol depends on your herd and management style. Before making any changes, consult your veterinarian. They know your operation and can help tailor a protocol that meets your herd’s specific needs.
References omitted but are available upon request by sending an email to the editor.
