METHODS OF IDENTIFYING CLINICAL AND SUBCLINICAL BOVINE MASTITIS

Abstract

Bovine mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary parenchyma caused by various infectious agents and is considered the main disease affecting dairy herds in Brazil and other countries, causing significant economic losses. In the subclinical form, usually transmitted during the milking process by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae, there are no noticeable clinical signs. The clinical form, however, is characterized by symptoms such as hardening and tenderness of the udder, increased local temperature, the presence of clots or pus in the milk, and reduced production. Treatment for mastitis varies depending on the methodologies employed, highlighting the importance of studies that promote standardization and enable the creation of more efficient protocols. These studies should include the analysis of preventive strategies and alternative therapies to improve disease control.