Teat dilators as foreign bodies in the Bovine Teat - two case studies

The objective of this study is to report on two cases of foreign bodies in teats with milk flow disorders. Foreign bodies and the causes of the milk f low disorders were diagnosed and treated by using teat endoscopy. In the fi rst case a teat dilator was found in the teat along with an inflammation of the teat cistern lining. The milk flow disorder was caused by teat canal s kin ruptured and inverted into the teat cistern. In the second case a wax t eat insert was found in the teat cistern. The milk flow disorder was caused by a narrowed inner opening of the teat canal. In both cases the milk from the affected quarters showed the signs of subclinical mastitis. The foreig n bodies were removed via the teat canal by using a forceps and the causes of the milk flow disorders were treated surgically. The affected teats were administerd with an antibiotic, inserted with a silicone implant into the teat canal, bandaged and rested for several days. On reexamination four wee ks later milk flow and milk quality were significantly improved. Our findin gs indicate the alterations in the teat canal area were the cause of the mi lk flow disorders rather than the the foreign bodies found. We conclude tha t in teats with milk flow disorders a diagnosis should be made first and th en a causal treatment initiated. Teat dilators and wax inserts without head may slip into the teat and act as foreign bodies. Teat dilators may harm u dder health.