The cost of mastitis to a farmer can vary widely depending on several factors, such as:
- The type of mastitis: Clinical mastitis, where the udder is visibly inflamed and the milk is abnormal, is more expensive than subclinical mastitis, where there are no visible symptoms but the milk is still contaminated.
- The severity of the infection: Severe infections require more treatment and can lead to a greater decline in milk production.
- The affected cow: Cows that produce more milk often have a higher value and the impact of mastitis on their production is therefore greater.
- The treatment costs: This includes the cost of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and any other treatments needed.
- The cost of the lost milk: Cows with mastitis produce less milk, which costs money.
- The costs of early removal: In severe cases, a cow with mastitis may have to be culled prematurely, resulting in the loss of its value as a breeding or slaughter animal.
Research from Uppsala University, Wageningen UR and DeLaval
A recent study by Uppsala University (Sweden), Wageningen UR and milking robot manufacturer DeLaval has calculated that the average cost of mastitis on a dairy farm increases by 1 Milking robot, € 230 amounts per case. This amount includes both the costs of clinical and subclinical mastitis.
The most important cost items:
- Additional mastitis cases due to transmission: Cows with mastitis can transmit the infection to other cows during milking. This can lead to additional costs for treatment and milk loss.
- Early disposal: In severe cases, a cow with mastitis cannot heal and must be removed. This results in the loss of its value as a breeding or slaughter animal.
- Milk production loss: Cows with mastitis produce less milk. This can have a significant impact on a dairy farm's income, esp at high-quality milk.
Prevention is cheaper than cure:
It is clear that mastitis can be a costly condition for dairy farmers. Good prevention measures, such as a good hygiene protocol in the Milking parlour, regular checks of the udders and timely intervention at the first signs of infection are essential to reduce the risk of mastitis and limit costs.
In addition to the direct costs:
In addition to the direct financial costs, mastitis can also have indirect consequences for a dairy farm, such as:
- A worse image: Consumers may be hesitant to buy milk from a company where many cows have mastitis.
- Animal welfare problems: Cows with mastitis may experience pain and discomfort.
- More work: Treating mastitis takes time and labor.
Conclusion:
Mastitis is a serious problem for dairy farms, with both direct and indirect costs. By taking preventive measures, farmers can reduce the risk of mastitis and limit the impact on their business.
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