Subclinical mastitis in goats and its relationship with cheese quality in Tenerife

Abstract

The present study of dairy goats in Tenerife was carried out to demonstrate if there is a relationship between subclinical mastitis prevalence and cheese quality. 25 animals were randomly sampled from each of the 4 farms, 2 from the north of the island and 2 from the south. Of the 100 goats that underwent California Mastitis Test (CMT), 8 had unilateral subclinical mastitis. Microbiological cheese analysis, made at the same time as the CMT, showed results within the values allowed by legislation. Even though the prevalence found was low (8%) and similar to those described in other studies, we must recommend applying preventive methods to control the disease, dealing with negative effects of subclinical mastitis as milk yield and its modifications on physical-chemical parameters.