Publications

When we think of mastitis and summer, we generally think of the risk of infection of Summer Mastitis to dry cows and maiden heifers. However, this is not the only mastitis that needs consideration. Indeed, in lactating cows, both SCC and mastitis rates rise during the warmer months. This dairy insight looks at the different mastitis infections that are prevalent during the summer months, the pathogens involved and provide advice as to what steps can be put in place to reduce or prevent mastitis at this time of year.

Getting water supply at grass right is a must for optimal cow welfare and to avoid potential dips in production. Water supply is a common pinch point on dairy farms, particularly when herd expansion has taken place and water infrastructure has not been addressed accordingly. Take the time to assess whether herd demands are being met and ensure the system is set up to cope with peak demands when ambient temperatures are at their highest. See Water Supply for Housed Cows dairy insight for advice at housing.

Gases such as methane and carbon dioxide are produced as part of the normal process of digestion in cattle. These gases are usually discharged by eructation (belching). If the animal is unable to remove the excess gas it builds up causing bloat, a distention of the ruminoreticulum. This DAIRY insight explores the causes of bloat, and how it can be treated – and first and foremost, how to prevent bloat from being an issue for your stock.

Yeasts have the potential to help rumen health, aid forage digestion and boost yields. However, before reaching for the bag, it's essential diets are balanced and delivered correctly and return on investment is carefully assessed. This DAIRY insight explores the uses of yeasts, when to use them and the key things to consider before feeding them.

Water quality is an important issue in the production and health of dairy cattle. Water can provide both essential and antagonistic constituents for dairy cows and therefore untreated water from boreholes, rainwater collection, etc., should be assessed for mineral composition and/or microbiological analysis when formulating rations or investigating metabolic disorders. This DAIRY insight looks at the analysis on offer through Kingshay and includes details on how to interpret your results.

Mycotoxins are a hidden risk in feeds and forages which can lead to milk suppression, suboptimal fertility and health issues. Once present, they are impossible to remove, so prevention is a must. When issues are suspected, diagnosing the mycotoxins responsible and feeding the correct binder at the right rate is key to success. This dairy insight explores Mycotoxins, how to spot them, prevent them and picking the correct binder when issues are suspected.

Private water sources are a great way to lower water costs on dairy farms, but failure to routinely monitor and address water quality issues can lead to problems with udder health. As such, it's vital that any non-mains water sources used in and around the parlour are tested for bacteria levels every 6-12 months. This DAIRY insight looks at the risks surrounding private water supplies, how to monitor contamination and how to address any problems that arise.

Computerised calf feeders are becoming increasingly popular to help labour efficiencies. Managed well, they can improve milk feeding consistency, drive weight gains and optimise calf performance. However, top notch hygiene and careful use of data is needed to realise their true potential. This DAIRY insight explores the key considerations when choosing a calf machine.

Heifer calves are the future of most dairy herds, and you don't get a second chance at getting it right. Therefore, time taken for attention to detail pays dividends, not only for the calf but for the lifetime of the animal – time and money that could be recouped many times over. This RESEARCH insight explores two recent studies, and asks if their findings can positively impact your heifer rearing management.

E. coli is one of the primary causes of clinical mastitis in the UK, presenting in various guises from mild cases to severe toxic mastitis that few cows will survive. With that in mind, the emphasis should be on preventing infection by ensuring cows are kept in a clean, dry environment.

Working with livestock will always involve a level of risk. One risk area that is often overlooked is zoonotic diseases (pathogens that are passed from animals to humans). These can threaten both your heath and the well-being of your staff. In an era of a global pandemic with a zoonotic origin, it highlights the need for understanding more about disease transmission from animals to humans. This DAIRY insight looks at some of the main zoonotic diseases in cattle and considers how you can protect yourself and your staff.

This DAIRY insight examines how to avoid antibiotic failures and looks at the on-farm test kits available and helps you choose the right one for your farm.