October 12, 2005

Improved UK cattle health will raise efficiency of milk production
 

Improved UK cattle health would raise efficiency of milk production, according to research presented at the recent British Mastitis Conference, West Midlands, England.

Mastitis was a common disease in dairy cattle that had cost dairy farmers economically, with regard to poor milk quality, discarded milk and veterinary bills. While it also affected milk production, the full effects often went unnoticed by the farmer.

Good udder health was the most critical factor in milk production, according to recent studies in Holland.

A Dutch researcher said countries such as the UK and the Netherlands had a quota system to regulate milk production. By reducing mastitis within the herd, fewer animals were needed to meet the quota. This in turn translated into lower capital costs such as smaller facilities needed for housing.

However, farmers were reportedly not following the best advice regarding this issue, he said.