Antimicrobials in the management of bovine mastitis
ABSTRACT: The primary use of antimicrobials in dairy cattle is associated with the occurrence of mastitis and conventional dry cow therapy (CDCT). However, in many cases, antimicrobial therapy is unnecessary due to the high likelihood of spontaneous recovery or because the infection is caused by pat...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Universidade Federal de Santa Maria
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Ciência Rural |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0103-84782025001000453&lng=en&tlng=en |
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| Summary: | ABSTRACT: The primary use of antimicrobials in dairy cattle is associated with the occurrence of mastitis and conventional dry cow therapy (CDCT). However, in many cases, antimicrobial therapy is unnecessary due to the high likelihood of spontaneous recovery or because the infection is caused by pathogens that are refractory to treatment. Our review addresses a fundamental question: how to optimize the treatment and control of mastitis in dairy cattle. We explored the combined use of microbiological culture and clinical history to enable a more targeted and effective use of antimicrobials. Customizing treatments based on specific pathogens minimizes public health risks. Additionally, we emphasized the effectiveness and safety of penicillins and cephalosporins administered intramammarily. Furthermore, we recommended the adoption of selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) as a priority in herds with rigorous mastitis control measures. This approach is essential for maintaining sustainable dairy production while ensuring public health safety, particularly in Brazil. We highlighted two key conclusions: i. microbiological culture should form the foundation of mastitis diagnosis and treatment and ii. it is necessary to demystify the belief that the success of mastitis treatment is conditioned solely on the direct action of drugs, particularly those critically important to public health. By embracing these principles, veterinarians and farmers can contribute jointly to sustainable dairy production and the protection of public health. |
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| ISSN: | 1678-4596 |