SCC Testing on the Rise

A rising demand for herd somatic cell count tests is being observed as dairy farmers become increasingly aware of elevated bulk milk counts and the threat of penalties as they approach the end of the season. It is also farmers’ last opportunity to check SCC status of cows as they develop strategies in preparation for next season.

Decreased milk production and a slow build up of contagious mastitis organisms spread from cow to cow over the season, typically gives rise to higher somatic cell counts (SCC) being observed at this time of year.

With most dairy companies testing individual bulk milk supplied to the factory and penalising suppliers with high counts (usually above 400,000 cells/ml) it becomes increasingly important for farmers to identify problem cows and either treat or remove from the herd. Demerits and/or grades can become very costly without quick intervention, particularly at this time of year, as counts can spike faster. High counts can also cause further loss in milk production by up to 30% in some cows.

“It is normal towards the end of the season, or when it gets dry, for farmers who are not already herd-testing to approach us wanting a herd SCC test,” says Alene Vincent, Herd Test Supervisor for CRV Ambreed.

Her department is currently very busy servicing farmers wanting SCC tests or a last minute herd test. “We are getting farmers ring us wanting a SCC test that don’t normally herd test with us, or don’t test at all,” she says. “Generally we are able to respond quickly and they are extremely pleased with the timing.”


However Ms Vincent points out that often farmers request a SCC test to identify problem cows after they have already received a factory bulk milk grade. This can be avoided by addressing the problem earlier, particularly if the bulk SCC is observed to be creeping up over 250,000.

“Farmers can order a ‘SCC test only’ which can be done during one milking only,” she says. “This is less than the cost of a full herd test, however farmers need to be aware that shed set up is still the same as for a full herd test.”

They will receive a lab report with counts for all cows, particularly highlighting cows over 500,000. For those farmers herd testing with CRV Ambreed a text service is also available where the farmer is immediately notified of the top 10 cows for SCC via text.

With milk quality becoming increasingly important for our export market and ultimately the farmer’s pocket a few simple steps can go a long way to avoiding headaches at this time of year. Identify offending cows early and remove from supply. Contact your veterinarian to address options. Teat spray diligently, and wear gloves when milking. And finally replace liners when due (usually after 2,500 uses)…don’t put off because nearing end of season or it could prove costly!