Short communication: disinfectant containing a complex of skin conditioners

The efficacies of 2 new teat dip formulations were tested against experimental challenge by contagious mastitis pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae over a 12-wk period. Formulations contained an iodine complex (0.5 or 1.0% iodine) and skin conditioning agents (propylene glycol, polyvinylpyrridone, glycerine, lanolin, allantoin, and aloe). Percentage reduction (dipped vs. control mammary quarters) in new contagious mastitis pathogen intramammary infections for the 0.5 and 1.0% iodine dips was 65.4 and 84.5, respectively. Both dips were significantly effective in reducing new contagious intramammary infections. Teat skin scores and teat end scores varied over time but were virtually identical for both treated and control teats, for both treatments. Thus, both dips were effective in reducing new contagious mastitis infections without untoward effects on teat skin condition.