Relationship of udder and teat conformation with intra-mammary infection in crossbred cows under hot-humid climate

Abstract

Aim: The present study was aimed to investigate the relationship of udder shape, teat-end shape, teat length, and teatdiameter with intra-mammary infection in Jersey crossbred cows under hot-humid climate.Materials and Methods: A total of 24 lactating Jersey crossbred cows were evaluated for udder shape (pendulous/regular)and teat-end shape (flat/inverted/pointed) by visual examination, while teat length and teat diameter were measured usingvernier caliper. Monthly milk sampling was done for 4 months of duration. Few quarters were found as blind or nonfunctionaland so, a total of 366 quarter wise milk samples were collected at the monthly interval and subjected to somaticcell count (SCC) microscopically. The data on SCC were transformed into log scale and analyzed.Results: There was a significant (p<0.01) effect of udder shape and teat-end shape on SCC level. The mean SCC levelfor pendulous udder was significantly (p<0.05) higher as compared to the regular shaped udder. Similarly, significantly(p<0.05) a higher level of mean SCC was found in flat teat-end shape. A significant (p<0.01) correlation was found betweenSCC and teat length as well as teat diameter.Conclusion: In conclusion, pendulous udder, flat and inverted teat-end, very long and thick teat were more susceptible tointra-mammary infection in Jersey crossbred cows and these traits must be considered accordingly while selecting dairyanimals for future milk production.