Current aspects of the use of automated milking systems

Automatic milking systems offer not only a marked improvement of the working conditions in dairy farms but also they may be able to improve the quality of life of the dairy farmer, the health and performance status of the cow and the milk quality. The current stage of development of automatic milking systems indicates that there are still some deficiencies in fulfilling the requirements of the milk hygiene regulations, the early identification of health problems and allowing veterinary measures. This paper details some aspects of cow and udder health and milk quality under the condition of automatic milking systems by discussing actual problems and potential future advantages.