BASIC PRINCIPLES OF MASTITIS THERAPY

Abstract

Mastitis is one of the most important health problems in dairy cows. In addition to the
health aspect and the apparent impact on animal welfare, mastitis is the largest financial cost in dairy
farms due to treatment costs and rejected milk because of the withdrawal period, as well as
permanently reduced milk production or complete lactation interruption in heavy form of mastitis.
The procedure and the outcome of the treatment depend on the form of udder inflammation, degree
of tissue alteration, timing of treatment initiation and the application of adequate preparations or the
appropriate procedure. The outcome of therapy can be full restitution of parenchyma and its function
or deterioration of the glandular parenchyma and filling with connective tissue. Nowadays, in
conditions of intensive milk production, mastitis therapy is only part of a mastitis control program
that puts mastitis prevention at the forefront. In case of clinical mastitis, it is necessary to apply
therapy during lactation.