Udder and teat affections in female dromedary camels: Frequency, clinical findings and treatment outcomes

Abstract

Udder and teat lesions are among the most significant health problems affecting milk production, animal welfare, and the economic sustainability of the camel industry. However, comprehensive epidemiological data on their prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes remain scarce. This study aimed to determine the frequency, diagnostic characteristics, and treatment outcomes of udder and teat lesions in dromedary camels. A total of 191 female camels presenting with udder and teat lesions were included based on clinical and ultrasonographic evaluations. Lesions were classified according to anatomical location, type, age, breed, etiology, treatment approach, and outcome. Udder lesions were significantly more frequent (78.53%; odds ratio 13.38; 95% confidence interval 8.13-21.94; p < 0.001) than teat lesions (21.47%). Mastitis was the most diagnosed udder lesion, accounting for 57 cases (38.0%), followed by fibrosis and wounds. In contrast, hyperkeratosis and teat wounds were the most frequent teat lesions. Lesions were most commonly observed in camels aged 5-10 years (OR: 3.6; 95% CI: 2.3-5.5; p < 0.001), and the vast majority were of acquired origin (98.96%). The Wadeh breed exhibited the highest proportion of udder and teat lesions (53.40%; OR: 2.6; 95% CI: 1.7-4.0; p < 0.001), followed by Sofor (30.37%) and Mejhem (16.23%). Ultrasonography proved effective in differentiating lesions based on echotexture. Overall, treatment was successful in 171 cases (89.53%; OR: 73.1; 95% CI: 38.6-134.3; p < 0.001), with complete clinical recovery. In conclusion, early clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation enables accurate diagnosis and reliable prognosis of udder and teat lesions in dromedary camels. Surgical intervention is an effective curative option for cases that do not respond to medical treatment.