In vitro and in vivo safety and efficacy of ozonized olive oil for the treatment of Naturally occurring acute clinical mastitis in dairy cows: a preliminary study

Antimicrobial resistance is a critical concern in livestock health, necessitating alternative therapies to reduce antibiotic use, especially for non-severe bovine mastitis. This study investigated the safety and efficacy of ozonized extra virgin olive oil as a potential alternative treatment for acute clinical mastitis in dairy cows. In vitro analyses assessed its safety regarding skin irritation, barrier properties, and antimicrobial activity. In vivo, 40 lactating Friesian cows with mastitis were divided into two groups: one treated with ozonized olive oil and the other with a cefapirin/prednisolone-based suspension. The oil was non-irritating, with protective effects but no direct antimicrobial activity. Clinically, 80% of cows treated with ozonized olive oil achieved symptom remission, while 100% of those receiving antibiotics improved. Somatic cell counts (SCC) decreased in both groups, with a faster reduction in the antibiotic group. Four cows treated with ozonized olive oil required subsequent antibiotic therapy. The findings suggest ozonized olive oil as a promising, non-antibiotic option for managing mild to moderate mastitis, potentially reducing unnecessary antibiotic use. However, antibiotics remain necessary for severe cases or those involving systemic infection. This approach could support more sustainable dairy farming practices while addressing public health concerns about antibiotic resistance. Further controlled studies are required to confirm these findings and clarify its role in mastitis management.