Utility of an in-line somatic cell count sensor for selecting cows for dry-cow therapy.

Minimizing the use of antimicrobials at the end of lactation (dry-cow therapy) requires categorizing cows as being likely infected or uninfected. Although microbiology is the gold standard for such categorization, the cost of such tests means that indirect tests, such as SCC, are commonly used. An in-line SCC sensor (SenseHub In-Line Somatic Cell Count; MSD Animal Health) is commercially available, but its utility in differentiating cows eligible for dry-cow therapy has not been assessed.