TESTING OF ALL HIGH MILK COWS
Milk rejected at this time of the year can have huge financial consequences for any producers so every effort should be made to avoid this.
When first high SCC's are recorded or when first warning notice is received, immediate action should be taken:
Identify high cows - test all cows immediately.
With-hold all milk cows over 400,000.
Treat high cows with a lactating antibiotic and test again after 2-3 weeks.
Test milking machine, correct all faults and test again afterwards.
Eliminate stress factors from cows environment, e.g.
a) Long walks for water.
b) Stony, rough or dirty roadways and yards.
c) Stray voltage.
d) Bare paddock - hungry cows.
e) Cross dogs to list a few.
Test milking machine, correct all faults and test again afterwards.
Disinfect with a teat dip solution collecting yards, cubicle beds and slatted or concrete passageways if cows are entering or exiting the milking parlour through these areas.
Breed ample replacements - at least 50% of heard in-calf to friesisn.
Finally, if you are among the small number of suppliers who regularly receive TBC and SCC warning notices you should at this stage be investigating the profitability of milk production on your farm.