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Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is a serious production and financial health issue facing small ruminant farms. Shami dairy does, and Rahmani ewes were chosen for this study. The udder dimensions of the test animals were evaluated, while the taken milk samples were analysed for chemical composition and the somatic cell count (SCC). The presence milk lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) enzyme in milk samples, haemogram and leukogram were determined, too. The incidence of SCM in goats and sheep was 53.33 % and 41.67 %, respectively. In both ovine and caprine milk, there was an increase in LDH concerning the increase in SCC. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between the decrease in milk fat and lactose contents (%) and the high SCC. The coagulase-negative staphylococci in sheep presented a significant difference in the high protein and low fat content, asymmetrical udder, low udder depth, and increased LDH. SCM in dairy ewes was detected with a rising serum C-reactive protein (CRP), while SCM in goats caused by S. aureus was associated to a reduction in lactose and fat but a high LDH, with a weak udder attachment. The study is considered to compare different diagnostic tools for pinpointing SCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]