Mastitis in Dairy Species

Abstract

The milk composition and quality are related to the animal's health (cow, buffalo, goat, and sheep). The mammary gland disease negatively impacts agricultural economies by reducing milk production and quality, treatment costs, discarded milk, and reduced longevity of animals. Therefore, the chapter reports how and which anatomical, physiological, and behavioral differences inherent to each species can influence the occurrence, treatment, and prevention of mastitis. Thus, early detection and antibiotic resistance are essential factors to exploit new detection methods and more natural remedies associated with reducing antimicrobial therapies such as antioxidants, nanoparticles, or essential oils base-plant. Furthermore, healthy animal selection and being genetically resistant to mastitis associated with reasonable hygienic procedures, training programs, and periodic equipment maintenance are crucial steps to ensure the supply of good quality milk and dairy products without risks to the population. In addition, these measures must respect the specificities of each milk-producing species.