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Prevalence and Farm Management Factors and Milk Quality Changes Related to Bovine Mastitis in Small- and Medium-Sized Farms in the Central Highlands of Ecuador

Abstract:

The Ecuadorian highlands provide favourable climate conditions for bovine milk production, where small- and medium-sized farms represent over 80% of dairy producers. However, in communities with limited technological resources, both clinical (CM) and subclinical mastitis (SM) pose significant challenges to productivity. This study surveyed a dairy-producing community in the central Ecuadorian highlands to evaluate risk factors associated with bovine mastitis and to analyse milk quality parameters. The prevalence of SM and CM at the animal level was 34.8% (130/374) and 1.9% (7/374), respectively, and at the farm level, it was 34.1% (29/85) for SM and 7.0% (6/85) for CM. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with the presence of SM and CM. An associated factor with the presence of SM (p < 0.05) was the non-compliance with time medication withdrawal (odds ratio [OR] = 3.88; 95% CI: 1.31–13.0). In contrast, performing the California mastitis test was a protective factor (OR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.10–0.93). At animal level, the use of crossbreeds increased the probability of SM (OR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.58–4.41). The presence of SM in the herd significantly increased the risk of CM (OR = 12.47; 95% CI: 1.30–119.31). Milk samples positive for mastitis showed changes in density, added water, and freezing point. These findings highlight the need for farmer training and strict adherence to diagnostic and preventive protocols for bovine mastitis in order to improve herd health and milk quality.