Abstract

Mastitis has been problematic for animal producers worldwide. The objective of the current study was to determine if the geographical location, management strategies, such as feeding and housing influence the incidence of subclinical mastitis in camels. Milk samples were obtained from 240 lactating camels belonging to three different breeds, located at different parts of the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. The milk samples were examined for the total content of bacteria and somatic cells (SCC). The levels of Immunoglobulin G, lactoferrin (LTF), TNF-a, IL-6 in the skim portion were determined. SCC were significantly higher in milk samples from southern-located camels than from northern-located camels, and from movement-restricted camels than from free-ranging camels (P≤0.01). SCC were significantly elevated in camels fed regularly and provided with 100% of their daily feed (P≤0.05). The IgG levels were significantly higher in the movement-restricted camels compared to the free ranging ones (P≤0.05). The lactoferrin levels were significantly elevated in the movement restricted housing (P≤0.05). In the Waddah breed, the LTF secretion was significantly elevated in camels fed regularly with 100% of their daily feed. TNF-a secretion was significantly elevated in camels with movement restrictions and fed in regular basis (P≤0.05). IL-6 concentrations were significantly higher in the free ranging camels. IL-6 secretion was significantly elevated in camels provided with 100% of their daily feed. Data of the present study contributed to our understanding regarding the effects of geographical location, housing, feeding system, and nutrition sources on multiple markers utilized in the early diagnosis of subclinical mastitis.