What should you know about mastitis treatment in animals?

Mastitis is inflammation of a mammary gland. An affected animal may have a swollen, hot, firm or painful gland, abnormal milk, reduced appetite, low energy or a feverish appearance. The cause may involve bacteria, injury, milk build-up or another problem. Cows, goats, sheep, dogs and cats have different anatomy, medicines and food-safety considerations. A human mastitis plan or household medicine is not a safe substitute for veterinary advice.

Separate the animal from situations where another animal could injure the painful area, keep bedding clean and dry, and handle the gland gently. Do not squeeze forcefully, apply human creams or give leftover antibiotics unless a veterinarian specifically directs you. Record changes in appetite, milk appearance, swelling and behaviour. Follow the veterinarian’s instructions for medicines, milking, hygiene and disposal or withholding of milk. Human Breast Pain and Painful Breastfeeding information is not a treatment guide for animals.

Contact a veterinarian promptly for a hot or rapidly enlarging gland, blood or clots in milk, marked pain, reduced appetite, weakness, vomiting or a feverish animal. Emergency care is appropriate if the animal collapses, has trouble breathing, becomes confused or deteriorates quickly. Do not use milk from a treated animal for people or other animals unless the veterinarian confirms that it is safe and gives clear instructions about any waiting period.

Ask whether the animal needs an examination, milk testing or imaging; which medicine and route are suitable; how to provide comfort; and how to manage nursing, milking, hygiene and milk safety. Tell the veterinarian the species, age, pregnancy or nursing status, recent medicines and when the changes began.