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Aparato reproductor

Mastitis (mammary gland infection)

Infection and inflammation of the mammary glands, typical of nursing females. Infected milk can be dangerous for the offspring.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT: a nursing female with a red, hard, painful mammary gland and a fever needs prompt veterinary attention, both for her own sake and for the offspring.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • One or more mammary glands swollen, red, hot and painful
  • • Abnormal-looking milk (with blood, pus or clots)
  • • Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite
  • • The mother refuses to nurse because of the pain
  • • The offspring may become ill or fail to gain weight

Causes

Bacterial infection of the mammary gland, common during lactation (injuries from the offspring, poor hygiene, milk retention). It can also occur during false pregnancies.

Diagnosis

Examination of the mammary glands. The vet assesses the appearance of the milk and the animal's general condition.

Treatment

Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and pain control. The vet will advise whether the offspring can continue to nurse from the healthy glands or need artificial feeding.

Prevention

Hygiene during lactation, checking the mammary glands daily, trimming the offspring's nails, and providing a clean environment for the birth.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT: a nursing female with a red, hard, painful mammary gland and a fever needs prompt veterinary attention, both for her own sake and for the offspring.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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