Risk Factors for Intramammary Infection at First Calving in Ontario Dairy Heifers

Authors

  • L. Bassel University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
  • D. Kelton University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
  • A. Godkin Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario, Canada
  • K. Leslie University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
  • K. Lissemore University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20035316

Keywords:

mastitis, Staphylococcus aureus, coliform bacteria, streptococci, staphylococci, intramammary infection

Abstract

It has been established that a significant number of heifers are infected prior to, and at calving, with both minor and major mastitis pathogens. Ontario is no exception, and has a significant proportion of heifers calving with quarters infected with mastitis pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, coliform bacteria, environmental streptococci and coagulase-negative staphylococci. Because of the negative impact such infections may have on future milk production and udder health, it is important to identify risk factors for these intramammary infections (IMI) so that attempts can be made to control them. It is particularly important to investigate risk factors for S. aureus IMI, since infected heifers must experience a mode of transmission other than spread at milking time.

Cover image of the 36th Conference Proceedings: Holstein cows standing in a row at a fence. One cow has put her head through the fence and is curiously inspecting a pile of hay. Yellow background.

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Published

2003-09-18

Issue

2003

Section

Research Summaries - Dairy II

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