When mastitis happens, it is easy to assume antibiotics are the next step. In many cases, they are, but not always. That’s where intentional mastitis treatment decisions make a difference.

Persistently infected (PI) calves shed bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) with every breath and drop of saliva. They don’t just live with the virus – they spread it, continuously and invisibly, exposing every animal around them to the disease, which can impact overall herd health and performance.

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.

With the latest changes from FDA guidance, now is a great time for producers to connect with their veterinarians and review their antibiotic use. Here are four steps your dairy can take to fine-tune antibiotic treatment protocols.