The evaluation of udder health status in Holstein dairy farms located in Qom province

Mastitis is the most economically important disease in dairy industry worldwide. Bulk tank milk (BTM) analysis has been suggested for monitoring the udder health status at herd level. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate udder health status in 15 Holstein dairy farms located in Qom province. Bulk tank somaticcell count (BTMSCC) was analyzed using opto-fluoroelectronic counter. Standard plate count, preliminary incubation count, laboratory pasteurized count, and the number ofenvironmental streptococci, S. agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae, S. uberis, E. coli, K. pneumoniae, coagulase negative streptococci, S. aureus and C. bovis were determined using specific culture media. Moreover, clinical and subclinical mastitis were diagnosedusing physical examination and California mastitis test, respectively. Most herds had moderate to high BTMSCC and high bacterial counts. The prevalence of clinical and subclinical mastitis was 1.3% and 24.7%, respectively. The present study indicated inefficient stall management, udder hygiene, and milking practices in the herds investigated.