California mastitis test

California Mastitis Test (CMT) is a simple and rapid test used primarily in dairy farming to detect mastitis in cows. The test was developed in California, hence the name. It is a cow-side test, meaning it can be performed right next to the cow, providing immediate results.

Overview

The California Mastitis Test is a quick, easy, and cost-effective method for detecting subclinical mastitis in dairy cows. The test is based on the reaction of the DNA in somatic cells present in milk with a reagent, which causes the mixture to thicken or gel in proportion to the number of somatic cells present.

Procedure

The procedure for the California Mastitis Test involves collecting a small sample of milk from each quarter of the udder into separate compartments of a special paddle. A reagent is then added to each compartment. If the cow has mastitis, the mixture will thicken or gel. The degree of gel formation is an indication of the severity of the infection.

Interpretation

The results of the California Mastitis Test are usually interpreted on a scale of 0 to 3, with 0 indicating no infection and 3 indicating a severe infection. However, the test is not specific for mastitis and can give false positive results if the cow has recently calved or is in late lactation.

Limitations

While the California Mastitis Test is a valuable tool for detecting mastitis, it does have some limitations. It is not specific for mastitis and can give false positive results. It also cannot identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.

See also

• Mastitis in dairy cattle
• Dairy farming
• Somatic cell count