Content
Cracks in the udder of a cow are a common pathology in cattle. They cause pain to the animal and are favorable areas for the accumulation and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, therapeutic measures must be carried out as soon as possible so as not to provoke the development of complications.
Causes of cracks in a cow's udder
If during milking the cow begins to behave restlessly, does not allow the milkmaid to touch the udder, or hits her limbs - these are signs of cracks. When they appear, it is important to determine the causes of such pathology as quickly as possible.
Visually, the milkmaid can see cracks and wounds of different sizes. A significant part of them are located on the nipples. They can be longitudinal and transverse, single or multiple, with a red bottom and somewhat thickened edges. Cracks in the udder and teats sometimes bleed because the epidermal layer is torn. With poor care, the mammary gland becomes covered with dirt and crust.
The main reasons for the appearance of cracks in the organ:
- poor-quality treatment of the udder before and after milking;
- wet, dirty litter through which pathogenic microorganisms penetrate;
- unsanitary conditions for keeping the animal in the barn (dampness, dirt);
- rough, sloppy milking (pinching).
Sometimes the cause of the pathology is a decrease in the elasticity of the skin of the mammary gland. This can also cause cracks and crusts to appear.
Why are cracks in the udder dangerous?
The mammary gland of cattle is a glandular organ. Consists of 4 lobes that end in nipples. It fits quite tightly to the lower wall and is held in place by the ligament and fascia. The organ is represented by glandular tissue, excretory ducts, connective tissue, nerve endings, lymphatic and blood vessels.
Thus, a cow’s udder is a very delicate organ that requires careful handling. Even a minor wound, crack on the udder or teat can lead to unpleasant consequences for the animal and the owner.
Already in the first stages of the development of the disease, the cow experiences pain during milking and during hygiene procedures. Every touch of the udder is stressful for the cow. This affects the overall health of the animal and milk production. Milk is not milked completely, which leads to the development of mastitis - an inflammatory disease of the mammary glands.
If the owner does not take any measures, then suppuration forms on the gland under a crust of dirt and blood, which leads to the development of infectious diseases of the udder, for example, phlegmon - an acute purulent inflammatory process of loose connective tissue of the udder.
Cracks, as well as diseases of the udder and teats, cause economic damage to dairy cow owners.Milk becomes either unsuitable for consumption or its quantity is significantly reduced.
How to treat cracks in a cow's udder
If the situation has not yet started, there are no complications, then the treatment of cracks will be quite simple, not expensive, and the prognosis is favorable.
The entire affected area should be rinsed well and free of contaminants using warm water. You can use a baking soda solution for this procedure. Then you need to carefully dry the skin of the gland with a clean towel. Afterwards, apply streptocidal ointment at room temperature or another disinfectant.
Each time after milking, the teats should be treated with a warm soda solution. Then lubricate with Vaseline or a special ointment for treating nipples.
It is also recommended to transfer the cow to manual milking or use a gentle milking machine during the treatment period.
Among folk remedies, cabbage leaves or coltsfoot leaves are often used, covering the gland with them and bandaging them with gauze. Also dilute rice starch to a thick sour cream and coat the affected area.
Preventive actions
Prevention should consist of careful care of the cow’s udder:
- each time before milking it should be washed with warm water;
- wipe dry with a clean towel;
- be sure to get a massage.
Massage significantly increases blood circulation, promotes the formation of milk and its complete milking, makes the skin soft and elastic. It needs to be done correctly.First, the right half of the cow's mammary gland is massaged, while placing the right hand on the front quarter of the organ, and the left hand on the back quarter. The thumbs should be facing each other. The udder should be carefully lifted and lowered, stroking from top to bottom. When massaging the left half of the gland, the thumbs should be turned in the opposite direction. After finishing the massage, you can begin the milking process.
You need to milk a cow while sitting on a bench on the right side of the animal, the tail should be immediately tied to the limb. The most correct milking technique is with your fist. This way the milk is milked completely and does not cause pain to the animal. The milkmaid's hands should be clean and dry.
It is important for the owner to understand that the animal must be kept clean. The stall should be cleaned daily. The litter should only be dry and clean.
Conclusion
Cracks in a cow's udder are the result of incorrect actions on the part of the owner, staff, or, conversely, their complete inaction. Fortunately, cracks do not require special treatment; even an inexperienced farmer can bring the animal’s health back to normal. However, if the situation is neglected, swelling of the mammary gland, mastitis, phlegmon or some other complications begins. Prompt veterinary attention and proper treatment may be required.
