Optimizing Milking Practices for Water Buffalo Welfare: A Review of Temperament, Behaviour and Udder Physiology

Confinement-based intensive production of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) raises challenges for sustainable milk production, milk quality and consumer apprehensions about animal welfare and food safety. Despite the fact that the reactivity of buffaloes to machine milking constitutes a new scientific field, it is a new phenomenon that is the subject of current debate. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of water buffalo cow behaviour and physiological responses that are relevant to optimizing milking management and animal welfare in these systems. It focuses on the relationships between udder characteristics, milking temperament, human-animal interactions, and management strategies. Our literature review suggests that: i) species-specific milking techniques are essential due to udder differences between buffaloes and cattle, ii) minimizing stress optimizes milk ejection and yield, iii) gentle handling improves buffalo welfare, and iv) a holistic approach integrating udder physiology, behaviour, and management is crucial for sustainable production.