PortaSCC for Goats

Somatic Cell Count Test

Goat Milk

The PortaSCC milk test for goats is a somatic cell count test for early on-farm mastitis detection. This 45-minute test helps dairy goat producers improve milk quality and production. This test is sold in two varieties (12 or 36 tests per kit), and the results are read with a color chart.

Beginning in 2021, test strips are now packaged in vials! This same great test now has an improved shelf life.

Discontinued Product 

The PortaSCC goat milk test is a 45-min. somatic cell count test for early on-farm mastitis detection. This unique, patented product can help dairy goat producers manage their herds and improve milk quality and production. The PortaSCC goat milk test uses the same proven technology found in the PortaSCC cow milk test.

 

Available in two sizes:

12 Strips

This easy-to-use test kit contain 12 PortaSCC goat test strips. Users simply apply one drop of fresh milk and three drops of Activator solution. In 45 minutes, results are ready to read using a color chart.

36 Strips

Same idea as the 12-strip version, but bigger! This test kit includes 36 PortaSCC Goat test strips.

 


Somatic cell count tests are used to indicate milk quality and detect mastitis in dairy goats and other animals. The on-farm tests do not need to be administered by a veterinarian and provide an easy and effective way to monitor herd health.


Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland that can occur in lactating goats and causes a chemical and physical reaction that alters the taste and quality of milk. The inflammation is the result of an infection that occurs when bacteria is introduced into the milk duct or caused by a wound on the teat. Visual signs of mastitis in goats include swelling or redness. The teat may turn hard or be hot to the touch.

 

Visual signs in the milk can include the presence of clots, flakes, or serous milk. The infection also causes a response in the goat’s system that include the movement of leukocytes (i.e., white blood cells) into tissue surrounding the infected area. Leukocytes that enter the goat’s milk are called “somatic cells.” These serve as a reliable indicator that an infection is present.

 

In goats, mastitis can be the result of poor hygienic practices, bruising of the mammary tissue, or wounds that result in infection. It is more common on farms that use intensive management practices for milk production or where living conditions are unsanitary or stressful. Abnormalities in a goat’s udder or teat can also make a goat more susceptible to mastitis resulting from infectious agents entering the milk canal and mammary tissue.

 

RESOURCES

PortaSCC for Goats Instructions

PortaSCC for Goats FAQs

Milk Quality Brochure