Classification and longitudinal examination of callused teat ends in dairycows

To examine the development of teat end callosity thickness and roughness in early lactation and to quantify cow factors of interest, a system to class ify teat end condition was developed. A distinction was made between rough and smooth rings around the teat orifice. In addition, a classification of the degree of callosity was developed. Kappa coefficients for the repeatabi lity of scoring by this classification system by different workers were 0.7 1 for teat end callosity thickness and 0.86 for teat end callosity roughnes s. The teat end callosity classification system was used for a longitudinal study with 40 cows during the first 14 wk of lactation. Models were built to predict teat end callosity thickness and roughness, machine-on time, and milk yield. For the response variables, teat end callosity thickness, mach ine-on time, and milk yield, the consecutive measurements appeared to follo w a lactation curve model with a subject-specific general slope and interce pt. Teat end callosity increased rapidly the first 8 wk. Cow factors such a s days in milk, parity, machine-on time, and teat end shape were associated with the degree of teat end callosity, and the probability of the callosit y ring to become rough. Teat end callosity thickness did not decrease withi n the 14-wk trial period for most teats. Pointed or round teat ends showed more callus than inverted teat ends. Longer machine-on time resulted in a h igher probability of the callosity ring to become rough. Rear teats showed less callosity than front teats in this study.