Milking Routine
The milking routine should be performed by people who are responsible, trained and conscientious. One key area is “transmission of bacteria”- particularly Staphylococcus Aureus. This can be transmitted from the milker’s hands to the cow’s udder. Wearing gloves in an extremely effective method of reducing this bacterial spread. Using the correct quantity of teat disinfection is also essential. The table below is a useful guide.
After a liner has milked an infected quarter, bacteria from infected cows can cause contamination in the cluster and also spread infection to the next nine cows milked with the same cluster.
Milking Order
Developing a milking order can have a major impact on the spread of mastitis.
It is recommended that you begin by milking first lactation cows before others with low somatic cell counts. Secondly, cows with high somatic cell counts, and finally, cows with clinical mastitis. This will reduce the spread of mastitis organisms from cow to cow.
It is also recommended that you milk newly introduced animals separately until their health status is determined, and that the cluster is sanitised before and after milking.
A good routine and calm milking environment is essential to a proper milking procedure.
For more information on developing a good parlour hygiene routine, check out our resources page.
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