Somatic cell count in dairy goats I: association with infectious and non-infectious factors

• DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04348-6
• Publication Date: 2024-11-06T10:02:58Z
• Authors: Marit Smistad; Ragnhild Aabøe In...; Liv Sølverød; Siv Skeie; Bjørn Gunnar Hansen
• Keywords: Udder; Somatic Cell Count

Abstract Background Intramammary infections negatively affect milk quality, animal welfare and productivity in the dairy industry. Somatic cell count (SCC) is most used screening tool to detect subclinical mastitis caused by intramammary infections. In goats, SCC greatly influenced non-infectious factors, which complicates interpretation. The aim of this research paper was determine association between SCC, factors including parity, season, lactation stage, yield goats. longitudinal study, 451 goats from four Norwegian goat herds were sampled for bacteriology up nine times during two lactations. Factors like yield, stage retrieved recording system. Results prevalent udder pathogen findings Staphylococcus caprae (6.8%), warneri (6.3%), epidermidis (3.8%), all had a mild but significant impact on SCC. aureus detected 3.6% halves major effect Parity, lactation, significantly Conclusions This study highlights that , along with such as increasing parity seasonal effects pasturing, influence Understanding these key contributors essential improving health management quality production.