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196. A third type of mastitis, referred to as summer mastitis, is an acute illness of dry cows and heifers which causes extensive and painful damage to the udder. The infected quarter is permanently damaged and results in early culling of the cow. Infections are more likely to occur when cows are in an environment where teats can be damaged and fly populations are high. In the UK, summer mastitis affects around 20,000 cattle each year.
197. The disease is transmitted by flies and peak incidence occurs when these are most frequently around cattle. Clinical signs of summer mastitis are a hot, hard and swollen quarter in association with a thick secretion, characterised by a foul smell. In severe cases, cows may develop swollen hocks and become lame. Summer mastitis can also lead to abortion and death in extreme cases.