Abstract: A method for investigating an electrical conductivity of milk from an individual cow, comprising the steps of measuring at least one electrical conductivity of at least one daily milking on each of a plurality of successive days and storing the respective electrical conductivities or computed functions thereof. An average value of the electrical conductivities or of functions thereof is then computed and stored for the preceding x days but excluding the previous y days where y<x, and at least once each day any deviation between the electrical conductivity or function thereof and the average stored value is determined. The deviation is stored and/or displayed and serves as an indication of the onset of mastitis. A system for carrying out the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A milking system includes at least one milking cluster arranged for engagement with a cow's udder during milking, a milk collection conduit, and a backflush fluid conduit. There is provided a disinfecting arrangement including a milking valve assembly which is operative selectively to couple the milking cluster either to the milk collection conduit or to the backflush fluid conduit. The disinfecting arrangement also includes a connection pipe interconnecting the backflush fluid conduit and the milking valve assembly and apparatus for supplying a disinfectant to the backflush fluid at a location along the connection pipe adjacent each milking cluster.