Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

What is the primary concern when managing a mastitis control program?

1. Feeding practices

2. Drug residue

3. Animal housing

4. Milking techniques

The correct answer is: Drug residue

The primary concern when managing a mastitis control program is drug residue. This is crucial because the use of antibiotics in treating mastitis can lead to drug residues in milk. Milk from treated animals must not contain residual antibiotic levels that could pose risks to human health. Therefore, strict protocols must be followed to ensure that any treated cows have an adequate withdrawal period before their milk enters the food supply. Ensuring the absence of drug residues is vital for both consumer safety and compliance with regulatory standards. While feeding practices, animal housing, and milking techniques are also important factors in preventing and controlling mastitis, they are secondary in the context of direct health implications for consumers regarding drug residues. Thus, focusing on drug residue management effectively safeguards public health while also maintaining the integrity of the dairy industry.