Incidence and Risk Factors of Subclinical Mastitis in Dairy Cattle in and Around Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is a prevalent and economically significant disease in dairy cattle, causing hidden losses through reduced productivity and milk quality. Elevated somatic cell count (SCC) is a key indicator of SCM, which is influenced by factors like age, parity, and lactation stage, but region-specific data is limited in central India. A field-based epidemiological study was conducted to determine the incidence and major risk factors associated with SCM in dairy cattle maintained in and around Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Following baseline screening, only newly detected cases of SCM occurring during a six-month study period (July–December 2025) were included. A total of 204 lactating cattle from organized and unorganized dairy units were monitored using the Modified California Mastitis Test (MCMT) and somatic cell count (SCC). Animals showing a positive MCMT reaction along with SCC values greater than 2.5 × 10⁵ cells/mL were considered SCM-positive. Animal-wise incidence of SCM during the study period was 26.96%, while quarter-wise incidence was 20.74%. Hind quarters were more frequently affected than fore quarters, with the right hind quarter showing the highest involvement. Incidence was significantly higher in cattle aged 5–8 years, in third and fourth parity animals, and during early lactation. The findings reveal a considerable hidden burden of SCM under field conditions and highlight the need for routine field-level screening and targeted mastitis control strategies focusing on high-risk groups in smallholder dairy systems.