Ref Code: CAT08

Category

Teaching - 2
Research - 4

Objective

To remove milk from cows in an efficient manner with no stress to individual animals.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Video

Details of procedure

Cows should be suitably restrained by a method to which they are accustomed. Cows should be fed whilst being milked, if this is usual practice. If beef cows are being milked, they will require restraint, e.g. with a leg rope.

Hygiene in milking must be emphasised. Teats should be dipped after milking with a suitable disinfectant. Udders indicating infection should be treated with appropriate antibiotic.

Milking cows should be milked out at least once per day. Calves should not be restrained from gaining access to the cow for periods exceeding 12 hours.

With the use of milking machines, it is essential that operators ensure that milking does not compromise udder health.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agents

Nil for commercial dairying except antibiotics and supportive therapy when necessary to treat mastitis.

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animal(s)

Nil

Reuse and repeated use

It is accepted practice that dairy cows are milked at least once daily for 300 days. The cow is then dried off until she calves again and the cycle is recommenced.

Samples may be collected three times daily.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

No special care required.

Pain relief measures

Not required.

Qualifications, experience, skills or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrators

Experienced dairymen. Demonstrators should be trained in milking procedure, operation of milking machines and infusion of intramammary preparations for treatment of mastitis.

Students

Experience in cattle handling.