California Mastitis Somatic Cell Test Kit

Rapid, cow-side test for the early detection of bovine mastitis. Immediately detects elevated somatic cell counts in bulk tank milk or within individual quarters. May also be used to confirm negative quarters in the just-fresh/early-lactation period.

Directions: Dilute CMT concentrate. Discard first stream of milk. Do not use colostrum, milk from fresh cows or samples after dry-off. Draw foremilk from each quarter into corresponding cup of testing paddle. Tilt testing paddle to discard excess milk until equal volumes remain in each cup. Remaining milk should be level with outside circle in the cup. Tilt testing paddle back until milk is halfway between inner and outer circles. Slowly add CMT working solution into each cup until mixture is even with the inside circle. This should provide equal parts milk to CMT solution. Gently rotate mixture in a horizontal position. Thickening or gel formation indicates high somatic cell counts and likelihood of mastitis. Readings of 1, 2 and 3 are definite positives. The quarter(s) is infected. A trace (T) reading indicates a possible infection. If all 4 quarters read “trace”, there is no infection. If one to two quarters read “trace”, infection is possible. A negative (N) reading indicates no infection. 

Starter Kit includes 12 oz CMT concentrate, testing paddle and dispensing bottle. Each 12 oz concentrate makes 1 gallon of working solution (approximately 350 tests) and comes complete with instructions and record charts in both English and Spanish. Concentrate refill available separately.