Virtually all mastitis infections enter the udder through the teat end. Anything that increases the chance of bacteria penetrating the teat end and entering the quarter will cause an increased risk of mastitis.

 In typical Australian dairy herds, the use of milking machines is estimated to lead to about 20-25% of mastitis infections.

 The three main ways that milking machines influence the spread of mastitis infections are:

1. causing teat damage, especially to the teat end, which decreases the natural barrier to infection of the teat canal
2. forcing droplets of milk and bacteria into the teat as a result of sudden vacuum changes or blasts of air into the system (“impacts”)
3. spreading bacteria via liner surfaces, milker’s hands

 Most milking machine faults usually result from gradual changes in performance because of continued use, wear and age.

 Regular testing, service and maintenance of milking equipment is essential to maintain good mechanical performance, to improve the speed and completeness of milking, and to improve mastitis control.

The Countdown Downunder Farm Guidelines recommend that milking machines should be fully tested and serviced to AMMTA (Australian Milking Machine Trade Association) standards at least once a year by a qualified technician.

They also recommend that the milking machines be monitored, tested and adjusted as often as necessary during lactation.

Immediate additional testing and service is recommended if any of the following are observed:

• cows appear to milk slowly or incompletely;
• teatcups slip or fall frequently;
• teat condition is poor; or
• cows appear nervous or uncomfortable.

Don’t rely only on an annual service. If any of the above signs are evident, then there is a significantly increased risk of mastitis.

Prevention is better than cure!

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"In typical Australian dairy herds, the use of milking machines is estimated to lead to about 20-25% of mastitis infections."