What is mastitis in cats?

Mastitis in nursing cats is a bacterial infection affecting one or more mammary glands. While this condition is more commonly seen in dogs, it can also occur in cats—especially during lactation.

The infection typically spreads upward through the nipple openings, often due to minor injuries caused by kittens’ claws or poor hygiene. In rarer cases, mastitis may result from a systemic infection spreading through the bloodstream.

Factors that increase the risk include:

• Unsanitary living conditions
• Inadequate hygiene
• Injuries to the nipples or mammary glands

Symptoms of mastitis in cats

The clinical signs vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite and lethargy, indicating general discomfort
• Fever, as part of the body’s inflammatory response
• Pain, redness, and swelling of the mammary glands
• Warmth to the touch in the affected area
• Discolored milk (yellow, brown, or pus-filled), making it unsafe for kittens
• Protective or aggressive behavior, with the mother refusing to let kittens nurse
• Abscesses or tissue necrosis in advanced stages, increasing the risk of serious complications

Without prompt treatment, mastitis can lead to septic shock, a life-threatening emergency.

How is mastitis treated in cats?

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the overall health of the cat.

For severe cases:

• Hospitalization, especially if the cat is dehydrated or deteriorating quickly
• Surgery under general anesthesia, to drain abscesses or remove necrotic tissue

For moderate cases:

• Targeted antibiotic therapy, prescribed after analyzing a sample of infected milk
• Temporary separation from the kittens, if the medication is unsafe for nursing. In such cases, kitten formula should be used to feed them

Prognosis and recovery

When detected early and treated appropriately, mastitis in cats usually resolves within a few weeks. However, veterinary follow-up is crucial to:

• Monitor the healing process
• Prevent recurrence
• Ensure kittens are fed properly if separated from their mother

Conclusion

Though less common in cats than in dogs, mastitis is a serious infection that can quickly worsen without proper care. With early diagnosis and timely treatment, most cats recover fully and without complications. If your cat has swollen, painful mammary glands or appears unwell while nursing, contact your veterinarian immediately.