Prevalence of mastitis in cow heifers and associated risk factors in Himalayan region, India

Aim: The present study was aimed to understand the prevalence of heifer mastitis and its associated risk factors in Jammu region.Methodology: A total of 250 pregnant heifers (1000 quarters) were screened, and lacteal secretions were collected from 915 quarters individually, in order to estimate the prevalence of heifers mastitis by culturing. The prevalence was estimated based on the results of microorganism culture. Results: The overall prevalence of heifer mastitis was 90.80% by cultural examination whereas only 30% of the animals produced clinical signs. The prevalence was higher in organized management system and prime risk factors associated with mastitis were season of calving, prepartum intra-mammary infections, poor udder hygiene, etc., in both organized and unorganized managements. Interpretation: High pre-valence of heifer mastitis (as evidenced by presence of microorganisms) is alarming situation for dairy farming in India. Season of calving, milk leakage at calving, prepartum IMI, poor udder hygiene, sanitation, beddings, floor type, and contact of heifers with older cows could be the important risk factors.