Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland, typically seen in female dairy animals such as cows, as well as in human females. Mastitis can disrupt milk production and quality. It is categorized into two major types based on the source of the inflammation: environmental and contagious.
**Environmental Mastitis:** This form of mastitis is caused by pathogenic microorganisms that are found in the cow’s environment. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), various species of Streptococcus, and environmental Staphylococcus species can enter the mammary gland. These pathogens often live in bedding, mud, and manure. Inadequate hygiene, damp conditions, and poor management practices can increase the risk of environmental mastitis. Infections are often acute and can be severe, and they often occur during the dry period when the animal is not being milked.
**Contagious Mastitis:** Contagious mastitis is spread from one animal to another, typically during the milking process. Pathogens responsible for this type of mastitis include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Mycoplasma species, and Corynebacterium bovis. These pathogens primarily live on the skin of the udder or in already infected udders and are transferred either through direct contact or via milking machines and equipment if proper sanitation measures are not followed. Contagious mastitis tends to be chronic with a long duration of infection, and it can be difficult to eliminate once it has established itself within a herd.Both types of mastitis can be managed and prevented with proper udder hygiene, good milking procedures, maintaining a clean environment, and appropriate treatment protocols. Early detection and treatment are also key in minimizing the impact of mastitis on animal health and dairy operation economics.
