Pseudomonas aeruginosa mastitis in two goats associated with an essential-oil based teat dip
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation
Volume
28
Issue
6
Publication Date
10-3-2016
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that has been associated with mastitis in dairy animals, including goats. Often, the environmental sources of the bacteria are water-related (such as hoses and muddy pastures). Mastitis attributable to P. aeruginosa was identified in 2 goats in a small herd. Efforts were made to identify environmental sources of the pathogen. Multiple samples from the goats’ environment were cultured, including water from the trough, bedding, the hose used to wash udders, and the teat dip and teat dip containers. The bacterium was isolated from the teat dip and the teat dip container. The teat dip consisted of water, liquid soap, and several drops of essential oils (including tea tree, lavender, and peppermint). This case illustrates a potential problem that may arise as a result of the use of unconventional ingredients in teat dips. The use of alternative products by goat producers is likely to increase in the future.
Recommended Citation
Kelly EJ, Wilson DJ: Pseudomonas aeruginosa mastitis in two goats associated with an essential-oil based teat dip. J Vet Diag Invest (In print, August 2016).