Randomized controlled study of the selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) efficacy on udder health and impact on the milk microbiota. SDCT efficacy on udder health and impact on the milk microbiota

Antimicrobial use in dairy farms is primarily related to mastitis and its prevention, mainly throughout a blanket dry cow therapy with antimicrobials. Regarding antimicrobial resistance, selective dry cow therapy seems a valid alternative to prevent mastitis during the dry-off and the following lactation reducing the unnecessary use of antimicrobials. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of selective versus blanket dry cow therapy on udder health through changes in milk yield, somatic cell count, and microbiologically also with an analysis of the milk microbiome. Our results revealed no statistically significant difference between the two treatment groups, confirming that selective dry cow therapy is an effective alternative to blanket dry cow therapy and can potentially reduce the use of antibiotics on farms.