Mastitis in cats: what to know

It is most often noticed in a mother cat during nursing, when milk remains in a gland or bacteria enter through a teat. One gland or several may be affected. The area can feel firm, warm, or tender, and a nursing cat may move away when kittens try to feed. Milk may look unusual, and severe inflammation can damage the tissue. A veterinarian needs to distinguish mastitis from normal fullness, an abscess, injury, or another mammary problem.

Arrange a veterinary examination promptly. Keep the cat in a calm, clean, warm space and prevent licking or rough handling of the sore area. Do not squeeze the gland, apply human creams, or give human pain medicine. If kittens are nursing, ask the veterinarian whether they should continue, because the advice depends on the milk and the cat's condition. Follow prescribed treatment exactly and keep bedding dry.

Seek same-day veterinary care for a hot, painful, rapidly enlarging, darkened, or open gland, abnormal discharge, feverish behaviour, weakness, vomiting, poor appetite, or trouble caring for kittens. Emergency help is appropriate if the cat collapses, has breathing difficulty, or seems severely unwell. Prompt attention can help prevent infection from spreading and supports safe care for dependent kittens.

Ask which gland is affected, whether the kittens can nurse, how to clean the area, which warning signs require an emergency visit, and when the cat should be rechecked.