Physiology of Lactation and Machine Milking

The main purpose of this article is to describe interaction between physiology of lactation and milking machine. This is important in order to avoid bad influ­ ences (such as: high somatic cell count (SCC), mastitis, etc.). The paper is divided into two parts: The anatomy part describes udder characteristics needed for healthy udder and high milk yield. The milking machine part describes milking machine parameters needed for good and easy milking. The main conclusions on udder physiology and milking machine interaction showed that the most important good milking machine routine, regular cow hygiene, regular cow mastitis control, milk­ ing pleasant to the cows and presence of three most important hormones (oxytocine, prolactin and growth hormone) for lactation.