Mastitis

What is it?

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland that frequently affects cows, goats and sheep, especially during the lactation period. It can be discreet or very visible depending on the severity of the infection. This is a common problem in Tunisian dairy farms that affects milk quality and animal welfare.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

Mastitis is usually caused by bacteria that enters the mammary gland, often through the teat canal. Injuries to the udder, insufficient hygiene during milking or poorly maintained milking equipment can contribute to its appearance. Environmental factors such as dirty or damp housing also play an important role.

The main risk factors include poor milking hygiene, dirty or damp housing, udder injuries and poor dry-off management. Animals with high milk production or at the end of gestation are also more vulnerable. Defective or poorly adjusted milking equipment also increases the risk.

Transmission

Mastitis is mainly transmitted by contact between teats and a contaminated environment, or by milking equipment shared between infected and healthy animals. Milker's hands or unsanitized cloths can also spread bacteria from one animal to another. It is not considered a classic contagious disease but rather linked to hygienic conditions.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Prevention

References

MSD Veterinary Manual

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 18 August 2026