Download for free: Checklist of 12 signs of mastitis during milking
Mastitis is one of the most common and economically significant health issues in dairy cows. Early detection of changes in the milk, the udder, or the cow's overall condition can expedite diagnosis and decisions regarding the next course of action.
That is why we have prepared a practical Checklist of 12 signs of mastitis during milking, which you can print, laminate and use directly in the milking parlour as a daily aid for the entire milking team.
What does the checklist offer you?
- 12 practical checkpoints to monitor at every milking.
- A simple system for checking the milk, udder and overall condition of the cow.
- An aid for detecting potential problems early.
- Practical material for training new members of the milking team.
- A clear distinction between when closer attention is sufficient and when veterinary intervention is needed.
- A printable A4 format suitable for use on the farm.
Free, practical and without unnecessary theory.
Why download the checklist?
The first changes in the milk or udder can easily go unnoticed — especially in larger herds, during staff changes or during time-consuming milking sessions. A standardised checklist helps establish a simple routine that the entire team follows consistently.
- standardise checks across the entire milking team,
- reduce the risk of overlooking visible changes,
- identify cows and quarters requiring further checks more quickly,
- support the timely use of appropriate diagnostics,
- improve communication between farm staff and the veterinarian.
The checklist is designed for everyday use. The check takes only a short time and can become part of the regular milking routine.
What does the checklist include?
Visual inspection of milk
Changes in colour, flakes and clots, changes in consistency and a sudden drop in the amount of milk from an individual quarter
Udder check
Swelling, enlargement or asymmetry of a quarter, increased local temperature, redness, pain and firmness.
Overall condition of the cow
Reduced feed intake, lethargy or reduced activity, and increased body temperature.
How to use the checklist
- Record the cow number, the quarter being checked, the time and the milker’s name.
- Go through all 12 checkpoints during milking.
- Mark all observed changes.
- Use the decision guide on the reverse side to determine the next steps.
- If mastitis is suspected, use appropriate diagnostics and, depending on the severity of the condition, follow the farm protocol developed with the veterinarian.
Download the checklist for free
Complete the form on the following page to receive a download link.
GET THE MASTITIS SIGNS CHECKLISTWhy address mastitis early?
Delayed detection or an inappropriate course of action can mean greater milk yield losses, more discarded milk, higher treatment costs and a greater risk of recurrent cases or premature culling of the cow.
Early identification of the problem and appropriate diagnostics help distinguish when monitoring alone is suitable, when microbiological testing is warranted and when prompt veterinary intervention is necessary.
