Evaluation of Teat Condition Using Liquid or Powder Dips in Winter

Objective of this study was to compares a 0.5% iodine aqueous teat dip vs 0.5% chlorhexidine gluconate powdered teat dip under winter conditions on overall teat end and teat skin condition and health. Under the conditions of this trial there were slight non-significant decreases in teat end condition associated with colder temperatures and temperature changes in both groups, with no differences between groups in TE change. Both groups saw some decreases in teat skin condition with powder dipped teats showing a 2 fold increased hazard of dry teat skin. Results of this trial show teat changes (skin and end condition) associated with cold temperature changes even under ideal (minimal wind) housing and different teat dips. Producers need to realize changes will occur, assess their own farm condition (housing, weather, wind) and be judicious in determining conditions requiring switches to winter dip products and practices