Ways Machine Milking Influences Mastitis

From the NMC Newsletter "Udder Topics", August 1997

The cluster can spread pathogens between cows.

Pressure changes developing during milking may transfer milk and air between teat cups, leading to cross-contamination with bacteria of teats on the same udder.

Fluctuations in vacuum within the cluster during, or at the end of milking, may lead to rapid movement of bacteria-laden milk droplets back towards the teat. These droplets may impact the teat end with sufficient velocity to implant bacteria into or through the teat canal. This is referred to as the droplet impact mechanism.

Inadequate collapse of the liner on the teat in each pulsation cycle increases bacterial penetration of the teat duct.

Malfunctions or incorrect use of the milking machine that result in trauma to the teat end or to incomplete milking, increase rates of bacterial entry to the mammary gland or reduce the chances of bacteria and toxins being removed during milking.

Source: National Mastitis Council Publication "Current Concepts of Bovine Mastitis" pg. 30 (1996)