Concentrate your efforts on the first three or four months after calving. These months are a time of tremendous stress, and implementing a stress management program can help alleviate it. I ncidence of new intramammary infections is highest around the time of calving because the udder fills with milk, an excellent nutrient supply for bacteria. In addition cows often leak milk prior to calving. Open teat ends provide easy entry for bacteria.
Stress also exerts a negative effect on the cow's immune system.
This decreases her ability to prevent or eliminate any new infection. T here is increasing concern by producers, milk processors and consumers to produce, process and purchase the highest quality product possible. At the farm level, this issue is addressed with mastitis control. A ll good mastitis management programs center on prevention. And all good mastitis prevention centers on cleanliness.