Research-Article
Measurement of Udder Volume in Live Goats as an Index of Mammary Growth and Function

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Abstract

The measurement of mammary gland volume in living goats can be used as a measure of the tissue weight in most adult animals. In 28 animals, where the method was checked at death, volume measurement in life by displacement of water showed an error of ± 11% and by making a Ca alginate mould of ± 2%. The weight of the two glands can be estimated separately from the ratio of their milk yields. Data are presented of changes of empty udder volume during pregnancy and lactation and of the rate of accumulation of milk in the udder between milkings. The rate of mammary growth was greatest in late pregnancy and there is probably an increase in extracellular fluid in the udder at term. During lactation the rate of decline in milk yield was greater than the rate of fall in tissue volume. There is a significant correlation between mammary gland weight and milk yield at peak lactation in goats.

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