Protocols for Evaluating Efficacy of Postmilking Teat Dips

Abstract

Protocols recommended by the National Mastitis Council for determining efficacy of experimental postmilking teat dips in preventing intramammary infections are detailed. Three protocols are designed 1) to determine efficacy of a teat dip in preventing new intramammary infections following experimental exposure of teats to mastitis pathogens, 2) to determine efficacy of a teat dip in preventing naturally occurring intramammary infections, or 3) to compare the efficacy of an experimental teat dip with efficacy of a teat dip efficacious in reducing naturally occurring intramammary infections. Design, procedures, and guidelines for data analyses for each protocol are described.