Udder

Udder

A cow's udder

An udder is an organ formed of two or four mammary glands on the females of dairy animals and ruminants such as cattle, goats, sheep, and deer. It is equivalent to the breast in primates. The udder is a single mass hanging beneath the animal, consisting of pairs of mammary glands with protruding teats.

Anatomy

The udder is divided into sections called quarters, each with its own milk-producing gland. In cows, the udder is divided into four quarters, each with a teat. The front quarters are usually smaller than the rear quarters. Each quarter operates independently in terms of milk production.

The udder is supported by a complex structure of ligaments and connective tissue. The median suspensory ligament is the most important, providing the primary support for the udder. The lateral suspensory ligaments provide additional support.

Function

The primary function of the udder is to produce and store milk. Milk is produced in the alveoli, small sac-like structures within the mammary gland. The milk is then transported through a series of ducts to the gland cistern, where it is stored until it is released through the teat during milking.

The process of milk production is regulated by hormones, primarily prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin stimulates milk production, while oxytocin triggers the milk let-down reflex, allowing milk to be released from the udder.

Health and Care

Proper care of the udder is essential for the health of the animal and the quality of the milk produced. Common issues affecting the udder include mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland usually caused by bacterial infection. Mastitis can lead to decreased milk production and quality, and it requires prompt treatment.

Regular milking and proper hygiene are crucial in preventing udder infections. Farmers often use pre- and post-milking teat dips to reduce the risk of infection.

Related pages

• Mastitis
• Milk
• Dairy farming

References

• "Udder." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udder
• "Mastitis in Dairy Cows." DairyNZ. https://www.dairynz.co.nz/animal/cow-health/mastitis/