Mastitis in dairy cows is caused by udder infections, usually resulting from bacteria which can develop during milking or through the cow’s environment. Examples include poor milking procedures, teat injuries or direct exposure to bacteria such unhygienic cubicle beds and lying areas.

Cost of mastitis

There are underlying costs associated with the presence of mastitis, including a loss in milk production from reduced milk yield, and the volume of milk discarded due to the use of antibiotics. It is also important to note that farmers can face penalties for a reduction in milk quality as it may not be suitable for manufacturing when tested.

Other underlying costs associated with mastitis include veterinary fees and the cost of culling the animal or mortality. Taking all of this into account, it is therefore critical that prevention and control of mastitis should be a priority on all dairy farms.

Mastitis prevention and control

The use of cubicle lime is critical in order to increase the pH of cubicle beds and inhibit the growth of bacteria. In addition to a good cubicle lime routine, the below steps should be implemented to help minimise the growth of such bacteria.

1. Passageways should be scraped down and cleaned twice daily. When using automatic scrapers, it is recommended to run these six to eight times per day in order to reduce the volume of dung being brought onto the cubicle bed.
2. The use of rubber mats are also recommended as they make the cleaning process easier and increase hygiene levels.
3. Hydrated cubicle lime is recommended as a cubicle disinfectant as its pH is 12.4 above the tolerance threshold for streptococcal and staphylococcal bacteria; two of the most common causes of mastitis. Although the pH in hydrated lime is significantly higher than the pH of cubicle lime (8.4), it does not irritate the cow’s teats and it also leads to increased cow comfort.
4. When applying cubicle lime, the optimum amount per cubicle is approximately a fistful. Other ways of administering cubicle lime include using a scoop to ensure an even amount is spread. Gloves and goggles should always be worn when applying cubicle lime as it can lead to severe eye irritation.

To learn more about the benefits of cubicle lime, click here

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The post Why cubicle lime is key to mastitis prevention appeared first on Bennettsbridge Limestone.

The benefits of lime use include:

• Increased yields
• Better grass species and clover survival
• More microbial activity
• More nutrient uptake by grass

Regaining value from the land

Further more, from having an incorrect pH in the soil will result in the value of fertiliser being lost on the land. In order to get your pH right and get value from your land, soil samples need to be taken every 3-5 years and following the results, corrective action must be taken. Contrary to common beliefs, lime can be applied at any time of the year, with mid-summer and autumn being the most ideal times.

The most cost-effective form of lime is ground limestone, which will begin to work almost immediately. Once it has been washed into the soil, adjusting the pH of the soil in the first three months. The maintenance of the pH levels follow in the next 12-36 months.

Calculating ROI

Similar to any other business, ensuring that there will be a return on investment is of great importance. Once the pH of the soil is optimised, the output of the grass can be increased by 1tDM/ha according to Teagasc.

Bennettsbridge Limestone are producers of Hi-Calcium Agri Lime and are members of GROLIME, Ireland’s only agricultural lime quality assurance scheme.

To order your Hi-Calcium Agri Lime, click here

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