Clearmilk

The test allows for the precise identification of the types of mastitis pathogens, which is crucial for establishing effective therapy and prevention. As a result, there is a reduction in antibiotic usage and an overall cost saving within the anti-mastitis program and the dry-off of dairy cows.

Follow-up laboratory tests serve as reliable support for your farm diagnostics. You will primarily use them to verify the accuracy of the pathogens you have identified, which is very useful, for example, when you use the ClearMilk test for the first time. The laboratory is also here for you to accurately identify more complex microorganisms that you cannot reliably determine on the farm according to the attached pathogen atlas.

Mastitis (inflammation of the mammary gland) is the most significant health and economic problem in dairy cattle farming, affecting approximately 50% of dairy cows during their lifetime. The disease of one quarter of the udder during lactation reduces milk production by at least 10–12%. Additional secondary losses occur due to the disposal of milk contaminated with antibiotic residues. It is essential to address the issue as quickly as possible before it spreads within the herd. The result should be a comprehensive mastitis management system tailored to the specific needs of the farm.

Antibiotic resistance represents one of the most serious threats to global health, food security, and the overall development of society, potentially affecting anyone of any age in any country. This problem directly leads to longer hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and higher mortality rates. Agriculture can contribute to addressing this threat by administering antibiotics to animals exclusively under veterinary supervision. It is also crucial that these substances are no longer used in farming as growth promoters or for routine disease prevention.

Drying off provides time for the mammary glands and the cow's body to regenerate, serves as preparation for calving and lactation, allows for the treatment of existing infections, and supports colostrum production. Using the ClearMilk test 1 week before drying off the cow allows for the correct selection of antibiotics and the precise length of treatment in case the subclinical mastitis pathogen is detected. After treatment, it is recommended to use a suitable dry cow product, which ensures reliable protection for the entire optimal dry period.

For the proper functioning of the mammary gland, its morphological properties and the immune system, which includes white blood cells, antibodies, and substances that inhibit bacterial growth, such as lactoferrin or the lactoperoxidase complex, are important. A significant defense mechanism is also the formation of a keratin plug in the teat canal. However, it has been found that the plug in cows susceptible to mastitis is different and contains higher amounts of oleic and linoleic acids. Cows that are quickly milked (soft-milking) also have a significantly greater tendency to mastitis.