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The California Mastitis Test ('''CMT''') is a qualitative cow side test for detecting subclinical intramammary infections (IMI) in cows.  

Also known as: '''''California Milk Test — CMT''''''

 

The California Mastitis Test (CMT) is a qualitative cow side test for detecting subclinical intramammary infections (IMI) in cows.  

The test works by using a detergent which lyses the somatic cells present in the milk and denatures any DNA present. This reaction increases the viscosity of the mixture, the extent of which is correlated to the number of somatic cells present. Some commercially available test solutions have a pH indicator present (bromcresol purple) which means the mixture will change from a red to a purple colour if the pH is high which is often seen when mastitis is present. Although several commercial solutions are available, many farms use normal detergent (“Washing up liquid”).

The test works by using a detergent which lyses the somatic cells present in the milk and denatures any DNA present. This reaction increases the viscosity of the mixture, the extent of which is correlated to the number of somatic cells present. Some commercially available test solutions have a pH indicator present (bromcresol purple) which means the mixture will change from a red to a purple colour if the pH is high which is often seen when mastitis is present. Although several commercial solutions are available, many farms use normal detergent (“Washing up liquid”).