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Review
. 2025 Mar 24;49(3):150.
doi: 10.1007/s11259-025-10720-0.

Alternative approaches to antibiotics in the control of mastitis in dairy cows: a review

Abir Maalaoui  1   2 , Abdesselem Trimeche  3 , Pierre Guy Marnet  4   5
Affiliations
Review

Alternative approaches to antibiotics in the control of mastitis in dairy cows: a review

Abir Maalaoui et al. Vet Res Commun. .

Abstract

Bovine mastitis is the most widespread and economically burdensome condition affecting dairy herds worldwide, causing substantial financial losses in the livestock and dairy sectors. The main approach to treating mastitis in dairy cows is based on the administration of antibiotics. However, their widespread use has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, and thus to numerous food safety problems. Consequently, a growing body of scientific research has been directed towards exploring new and effective therapeutic alternatives for the management of bovine mastitis, which could replace conventional antibiotic therapy. This review surveys the various alternative strategies employed in the prevention and treatment of mastitis in dairy cattle. These strategies include nanoparticle therapy, bacteriophage therapy, vaccination, phytotherapy, the use of animal proteins, probiotics and bacteriocins. In addition, the potential synergistic effects resulting from the combination of these treatments has shown real benefits that will be highlighted.

Keywords: Alternative approaches; Bovine mastitis; Dairy cows; Drug resistance.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Ethics approval and consent to participate: Not applicable. Consent for publication: Not applicable. Consent to participate: Not applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

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