With the ban on the blanket use of antibiotic dry cow tubes coming into effect in January 2022, farmers’ approach to drying off cows into the future is going to change drastically.

This change is going to come in the form of selective dry cow therapy (SDCT), which is what some farmers have already started doing on their farms.

However, it is important to note that not every cow is suitable for this and a good way of identifying what cows would be suitable is through milk recording results.

Cows with records of clinical mastitis and/or an SCC of greater than 100,000 cells/ml should receive the appropriate antibiotic treatment.

For added security and peace of mind, using the California Mastitis Test (CMT) on all cows that have been selected to receive no antibiotics at dry-off will help to ensure that the right cows have been selected for SDCT.

SDCT will only be a success if good hygiene practices are carried out at drying off. As well as that, strict selection and regular data recording will ensure responsible antibiotic usage.

It is best, if you are unsure what to, to talk to your vet to see if your herd is suitable for SDCT and if it is then they can assist you in drawing up a plan.