The present study investigates the biochemical
effects of Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini 1888) infestation on the
milk quality of milch cattle (Bos indicus) from Chhatrapati
Sambhajinagar district. A total of 55 animals were surveyed during 2023–2024,
and those infected with ectoparasites were categorized into treated (dewormed)
and untreated groups. Milk samples were collected under strict hygienic
conditions and analysed using an SL30 Lactoscan Milk Analyzer for parameters
including fat, solids-not-fat (SNF), density, protein, and lactose.
Quantitative and qualitative assessments were performed on Day 1 (before
treatment) and Day 15 (post-treatment) to compare biochemical changes.
Results revealed a significant improvement in milk composition in
treated cows, with marked increases in fat (0.422%), protein (0.292%), SNF
(0.186%), and lactose (0.053%) after deworming. This indicates a positive
recovery in nutritional quality following ectoparasite control. Conversely,
untreated cattle showed deterioration in milk parameters, with notable
decreases in fat (–0.945%), SNF (–0.394%), density (–0.535), and lactose
(–0.314%), reflecting the negative impact of prolonged infestation. The
findings suggest that tick infestation, particularly by Rhipicephalus
microplus, significantly reduces milk yield quality and composition,
leading to economic losses for farmers. Effective ectoparasite management,
including timely deworming, improves milk quality and may enhance overall productivity
in smallholder dairy systems. This study highlights the importance of
integrated parasite management programs to sustain dairy health and improve
rural economic outcomes in the Aurangabad district.
