Changes in electrical conductivity, milk production rate and milk flow rate prior to clinical mastitis confirmation

Because a human observer is typically not present during milking process when automatic systems (AMS) are used, observation replaced by mastitis detection consisting of sensors and algorithms that create alerts. Several authors suggest sensing to detect clinical (CM) in need improvement. The aim this retrospective study was observe trends over time potential indicators CM, thus identifying promising CM analysis methods. Data from Northeastern USA commercial dairy farm with 1280 Holstein Friesian cows using 20 AMS units were used for the analysis. Over one-year period, there 117 confirmed cases herd. Thirty sessions prior confirmation (n = 3134). Of cases, 12% primiparous (L1), 24% second lactation (L2) 64% third or greater (L3+). Differences between group average CM-confirmed non-CM quarters observed quarter-level electrical conductivity (ECq), milk production rate (MPRq), flow (AMFq) peak (PMFq). Positive indications apparent well before visual signs ECq MPRq; however, positive AMFq occurred only one day confirmation. combination ECq, MPRq potentially useful differentiating an early (before manifested) false detection.HighlightsData analysisThe progression changes characteristics investigated period mastitisChanges quarter indicate it possible developing manifested