Animal health special: Key considerations when picking a teat disinfectant

Protective

Mrs Cox says in these conditions, the protective surface coating may be removed, increasing the risk of bacterial infection. Preventative measures are important to avoid this damage.

She advises milk producers to use a product which has balanced emollients to ensure rehydration and moisture retention as well as fast-acting bacteria with quick absorption and drying capabilities.

“Many farmers look for products which have a dual role for pre- and post-routines via the same application. Look out for a product which rapidly removes soil to allow optimum disinfection of the teat and, if applied post-milking, ensures the greatest protection against bacterial threat.

HOUSED COWS

SKIN condition is less of a challenge when cows are inside, however other factors need to be taken into account:

■ Controlling environmental bacteria becomes a priority, so pre-milking teat cleaning/biocidal action needs to be addressed

■ Transitional animals could also benefit from viscous/highemollient content products

According to Mrs Cox, other factors can also bring new challenges for teat hygiene – such as transition between groups, diet changes, bedding changes, seasonal weather conditions, group management etc.

But she adds it is always important to keep the hygiene management simple, so selecting a product which works for all your herd effectively needs some thought.

Hygiene

“Annual spend on hygiene products can be significant, so time spent researching the best products can pay dividends.”

An issue which is also becoming more relevant to dairy farmers is residue control and the environment, says Mrs Cox.

“Milk buyers are playing a role in driving this and presumably will continue to do so, so products which are proven to minimise residues should be researched.”