FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

The dairy industry is important in Wisconsin and throughout the world. For that reason, we receive many questions about milk production, milk quality and other related issues. Here are a some of the most popular questions - and our answers. Feel free to send us your questions.

Send questions to:

TOP MILK c/o Sevie Kenyon
Department of Dairy Science
1675 Observatory Drive
Madison, WI 53706

email: topmilk@calshp.cals.wisc.edu
Toll Free Phone: 1.866.TOP.MILK/1.866.867.6455

Why does my Somatic Cell Count go up in the summer?

Seasonal variations in somatic cell counts are common. The following graph indicates how BTSCC fluctuates.

SCC is often lowest during the winter months and highest during the summer months. Housing and temperature changes may affect the level of infection. Summer environmental conditions are ideal for the growth of bacteria. During these months, cows are often exposed to more wet surfaces. Both of these factors increase overall exposure of cows to mastitis causing organisms.

However, the season is only one factor that can affect somatic cell counts. Other factors include: mastitis, teat/udder injury, age of cow, stage of lactation, stress, daily variations, management factors.

For more information:

1. Somatic Cell Counts: Interpretation For Individual Cows
   This fact sheet discusses factors affecting somatic cell counts, interpretation of individual cow SCC, and using SCC for management decisions. Published by OMAFRA (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs).
   
   
2. Bulk Tank Somatic Cell Counts
   This fact sheet discusses milk production losses related to SCC and SCC testing. Published by OMAFRA (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs).
   
   
3. Taking Sterile Bulk Tank Cultures
   Training video provides proper procedures to take sterile bulk tank cultures.

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