Review on Subclinical Mastitis in Dairy Camels

Abstract

Camels play a crucial role as multipurpose animals, providing milk and meat and serving as a means of transportation. They serve as a financial reserve for pastoralists and hold significant cultural and social value. Camel milk, known for its exceptional nutritional properties, is considered a valuable substitute for human milk. However, udder infections, particularly mastitis, pose significant challenges to camel farming. Mastitis, especially the subclinical form, is a persistent and prevalent condition affecting milk hygiene and quality in dairy camels. This review offers insights into the prevalence, risk factors, and bacterial pathogens associated with subclinical mastitis in camels, noting its prevalence ranging from 9.28% to 87.78%. Pathogens identified include Staphylococcus aureus, Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus spp., Pasteurella haemolytica, and Corynebacterium spp. The study outlines key risk factors contributing to camel mastitis, emphasizing severe tick infestation, age, lactation stage, parity, body condition score, skin lesions on the teats or udders, anti-suckling devices, udder history, conformation, breed, unhygienic milking practices, and production system, amongst others, that have been reported to be important in the prevalence of subclinical mastitis. The findings underscore the importance of holistic management practices, emphasizing hygiene, health monitoring, and targeted interventions to ensure camel well-being and productivity in various agro-pastoral contexts.