Prevalence and Risk Factors of Subclinical Mastitis of Goats in Banadir Region, Somalia

Abstract

Introduction
Mastitis is one of the major diseases that affect dairy goat production. It occurs after several microbes invade and colonize the secretory
tissue, leading to inflammation of the mammary glands. While mastitis can be caused by many infectious or non-infectious
agents, it is classified as clinical and subclinical. Mastitis is one of the major problems and the top complaint from stakeholders of
dairy goats in the Banadir region.
Objectives
The objectives of the study were to determine the prevalence of mastitis in goats and to find out the significant risk factors associated
with mastitis in goats.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was carried out between January and July 2022. The study population was all the lactating goats and does in
the Banadir region. A total of 207 lactating goats were randomly selected from goat farms in some selected districts of the Banadir
region and screened for subclinical mastitis using the California Mastitis Test (CMT).
Results
Based on CMT results, an overall subclinical mastitis prevalence of 67.6% was found. According to the risk factors, the study
revealed that the lactation period (p=0.002) and body condition (p=0.005) had a significant association with the prevalence of mastitis,
whereas the late lactation stage and poor body condition had the highest prevalence (73% and 79%, respectively). However,
there was no statistically significant association between mastitis infection and risk factors such as study udder injury (p=0.191), age
(p=0.284), hygiene (p=0.319), and parity number (p=0.620).
Conclusion
The current research has shown that mastitis is extensively common among lactating goats in the area under study, with numerous
risk factors identified that make the udder susceptible to infections.
Recommendation
The study recommends farmers be vigilant and closely monitor their dairy goats for mastitis during the late stage of lactation and
in advanced age, immediate treatment of injured udders, and regular screening.