Question of the Day

Supportive care is the first and best treatment for severe coliform mastitis (i.e., E.coli, Klebsiella, Enterobacter spp.). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxins released from the bacteria trigger immune-related sepsis. Treat with IV fluids and oral calcium. NSAIDs administered early in the course of disease can decrease the severity of clinical signs and improve treatment outcomes.

The subsequent use of antimicrobial therapy in severe coliform mastitis cases is controversial, but about half of endotoxic cases will also be bacteremic. Some studies suggest improved patient outcomes with IV oxytetracycline or IM cephalosporins. Both are extra-label drug use and require Food and Drug Avoidance Residue Databank (FARAD) approved drug withdrawal times in the US.

Pirlimycin is a lincosamide that targets gram-positive Staph spp. and Strep spp. and would not be indicated in this case.

Prevent new cases of environmental mastitis pathogens with antiseptic teat dip before and after each milking, good bedding management, and fly control. Vaccinate dry cows with bacterin toxoid to aid in prevention of coliform mastitis and endotoxemia.

Expect 1-2 cases of clinical mastitis per 100 cows/month on well managed herds.

Image courtesy of Liz Brock, DVM, MS.