Changes in the values of two ultrasound-examined teat parameters during the dry period in dairy cows

Abstract

The length of the streak canal and the area of the teat end were studied by ultrasound during the dry period in 40 Holstein-Friesian cows. In the first week, the values of these teat parameters decreased significantly (P < 0.05) and this did not change significantly until the middle of the dry period. In the last month of gestation, the length of the streak canal was significantly reduced (P < 0.05), while the area of the teat end did not decrease significantly (P > 0.05). At each of the five examination times, a very strong positive correlation (r = 0.85–0.94) was found between the two teat parameters. In healthy cows, the streak canal and the area of teat end, both of which are part of the udder’s defence system, can regenerate sufficiently during the dry period, minimising the risk of contamination through the streak canal and the development of mastitis. If the regeneration of this defence system fails, the chances of infection through the streak canal increase.