Pain recognition and mastitis were discussed recently at the 2019 Total Dairy Seminar. Dr. Jim Reynolds, professor at Western University in California, outlined the welfare aspects of mastitis and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories to reduce pain caused by a mastitis infection. Learn what behavioral changes Dr. Reynolds identified that indicate a cow is experiencing pain.
Source: Vet Practice, September 25, 2019. Link. Studies with clinical mastitis indicate that controlling pain, together with antibiotics, has not only led to a more rapid recovery but tangible benefits, including reduced cell count, less culling and improved conception rate.
INSIGHTS: Because cattle can be stoic and often don’t show pain, when signs are identified, action needs to be taken immediately. This article is packed with more about pain recognition and non-aureus staphylococci in heifers.