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Mastitis in dogs can be distressing for both pets and their owners. If your dog is nursing puppies or has recently given birth, you might notice signs of discomfort or inflammation in her mammary glands. Understanding how to care for your dog during this time and knowing when to seek veterinary advice is crucial for her health and well-being.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Mastitis is an inflammation of one or more mammary glands, often caused by a bacterial infection. It can develop quickly, so it’s important to recognize the symptoms early. Keep an eye out for the following signs:
- Swollen, firm, or hot mammary glands
- Discolored skin on the affected area (red or purple)
- Visible pain or discomfort when touched
- Reduced appetite or lethargy
- Foul-smelling or discolored milk (green, yellow, or bloody)
- Puppies failing to gain weight or showing signs of hunger
- Fever or shivering
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to act quickly. Mastitis can progress rapidly and may lead to serious complications if left untreated.
🔍 Possible Causes
Mastitis typically develops when bacteria enter the mammary glands through the nipples. This can occur due to:
- Injuries or scratches on the nipples caused by nursing puppies
- Incomplete drainage of milk, leading to milk stasis
- Weaning puppies too abruptly
- Unsanitary living conditions
Although mastitis most commonly affects nursing mothers, it can occasionally occur in dogs that are not lactating due to hormonal imbalances or infections.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
If you suspect your dog has mastitis, there are some steps you can take at home to provide relief before consulting a veterinarian:
- Apply warm compresses to the affected area to reduce swelling and improve milk flow.
- Encourage nursing if your dog is still able to feed her puppies. Nursing can help drain the glands, but monitor closely to ensure the puppies are not consuming infected milk.
- Gently massage the inflamed glands to promote milk flow and relieve pressure.
- Keep the area clean and dry to prevent further infection.
- Ensure your dog stays hydrated and has access to high-quality, nutritious food to support her recovery.
While these measures may help alleviate mild symptoms, they are not a substitute for veterinary care. If your dog’s condition does not improve within 24 hours or worsens, it’s time to seek professional advice.
💡 When to Call a Vet
Mastitis can escalate quickly, so it’s important to know when to involve a veterinarian. Contact a vet immediately if:
- Your dog has a fever, appears lethargic, or refuses to eat
- The affected glands are extremely painful, discolored, or ulcerated
- There is pus, blood, or a foul odor in the milk
- Your dog shows no improvement after trying home care
In some cases, mastitis may require antibiotics to treat the infection or even surgical intervention if an abscess has formed. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and may recommend additional tests, such as milk sampling or blood work, to determine the best course of treatment.
Remember, early intervention is key to preventing complications such as sepsis or the death of affected tissue.
FAQs
Q: Can mastitis resolve on its own?
A: Mild cases may improve with supportive care, but most cases of mastitis require veterinary attention to prevent complications. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure.
Q: Is mastitis contagious to puppies?
A: Mastitis itself is not contagious, but infected milk can harm nursing puppies. If you suspect the milk is affected, consult your vet immediately and consider bottle-feeding the puppies temporarily.
Q: How can I prevent mastitis in my dog?
A: Keep your dog’s living area clean, ensure proper nutrition, and monitor her mammary glands regularly. Gradually weaning puppies and addressing nipple injuries promptly can also reduce the risk.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
