MASTITIS

General Information:

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary glands, with or without infection. It is related to heavy milk production and incomplete emptying of the glands. The mammary glands become swollen, tender and hot, and may develop dark-red or purple soft spots. Milk may be blood-tinged or off-color.

Other signs include fever, restlessness, reduced appetite and discomfort of the mammary glands. The mother will often neglect the young, and they in turn will cry excessively, weaken and die if not cared for properly.

Treatment Information:

In severe infections, surgical drainage of the affected glands may be necessary. Hospitalization with IV fluids and antibiotics may be required.
Medications:
Antibiotics will be dispensed or a prescription sent home with your pet. Please use the medication as directed until completely gone.
Care of the mammary gland:
Twice daily hot packing the mammary glands with warm water soaked rags is recommended.
Weaning:
In many cases, puppies/kittens must not be allowed to nurse. The lack of stimuli from the non-nursing pups will facilitate the milk drying-up process. Weaning of the pups should be done using canned puppy food or moistened down dry puppy food. It is best to cover the floor with paper or other suitable material, spoon out the food in a circular pattern around the dish containing the food. The pups/kittens curiosity will cause them to walk through the food to get to the dish to inspect it. They will then lick the food off of their paws and therefore learn to eat the food.

We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your veterinarian's office, or feel free to e-mail us.

David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC