Prevalence and risk factors of sub-clinical mastitis in goats in Bangladesh

Abstract

Goats are a major source of supplementary income for rural populations in Bangladesh and play a significant role in the country's economy. The demand for healthy food is driving up interest in dairy goats and goat milk products since goat milk is less allergic than cow milk and has nutritional properties that are comparable to those of human milk. The fact that the number of goats in Bangladesh has increased over the past 20 years is another indication of this significance. Mastitis, a bacterial infection of the mammary gland, is the primary cause of poor milk quality. Lactating goats are among the dairy animals that are most susceptible to intramammary infections, which can have a significant financial impact on farmers. However, there are minimal scientific studies present on caprine subclinical mastitis in Bangladesh. The present study was undertaken to determine the proportionate prevalence of sub-clinical mastitis along with the potential risk factors associated with sub-clinical mastitis and mastitis related organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus. The teat and udder of 100 lactating goats were physically examined. Most of the goats were reared under intensive as well as semi-intensive rearing systems. Wooden floor was more common floor type among the studied farm and others used earthen floor and some were found using only plastic and clothing bags over mud. The cross-breed goats were reared more than the other breeds like beetal, jamunapari and local. In this study the major bacterial pathogens isolated was Staphylococcus aureus (13%). Chi-squared test was applied to identify potential risk factors associated with SCM in goats. Teat end shape (pointed, rounded and flat) and Age (minimum 32 months versus maximum 33 months) were identified as the risk factors for SCM in goats. Knowledge obtained from the study could help in practicing hygienic management systems for goat farming to reduce SCM in goats.