Relationships between Somatic Cell Count and Udder Type Scores in Holstein Cows

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the relationships between somatic cell count (SCC) and udder type scores (UTS) of Holstein cows. A total of 120 cows raised at five private farms were monthly evaluated by SCC and UTS. In SCC analysis, direct microscopy was used, and in UTS assessment, a 1-9 point scale, where lower points indicate poor and higher points indicate larger udder structure, was applied. Data were evaluated by three parity and four season groups. Also, effect of stage of lactation was assessed in three groups (70 +/- 14d, 140 +/- 14d and 210 +/- 14d). Parity and stage of lactation had no-significant effect on both the parameters, but effect of season on SCC was significant (P<0.05). Correlation coefficient between SCC and UTS was -0.149. The UTS records could be a useful tool for selecting cows with lower SCC. (C) 2013 Friends Science Publishers