My nursing dog has mastitis, what should I do? - briefly
If your nursing dog has mastitis, prompt veterinary care is essential to prevent complications. In the meantime, ensure she is comfortable and hydrated, but avoid trying to manually express the milk yourself as this can cause further damage.
My nursing dog has mastitis, what should I do? - in detail
Mastitis in a nursing dog is a serious condition that requires prompt attention and veterinary care. Here's what you need to know and do:
Mastitis is an infection of the mammary glands, often caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Escherichia coli. It can occur due to poor hygiene, injury to the teats, or a weakened immune system. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, heat, pain, and discharge from the affected gland(s). In severe cases, the dog may also exhibit fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Immediate Steps:
- Contact Your Veterinarian: Mastitis is a veterinary emergency. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading and causing serious complications like sepsis or even death.
- Keep the Area Clean: Gently clean the affected teat with warm water and a mild antiseptic soap, ensuring no residue remains. Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as they can cause irritation.
- Provide Comfort: Offer your dog a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Ensure she has easy access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.
What Not to Do:
- Do not attempt to express or milk the affected gland(s) as this can spread the infection.
- Avoid applying any topical ointments or creams without your veterinarian's approval.
- Do not give your dog any medication, including antibiotics, unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
Veterinary Care: Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, urinalysis, or a culture of the affected milk to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Treatment typically involves:
- Antibiotics: To fight the bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the type of bacteria identified.
- Pain Management: Medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- Supportive Care: This might include fluid therapy to prevent or treat dehydration, especially if your dog is refusing to drink.
Prevention: To help prevent mastitis in the future:
- Maintain good hygiene by keeping the nursing area clean.
- Ensure proper drainage of milk from all teats during each feeding session.
- Provide a balanced diet to support your dog's immune system.
- Regularly monitor your dog's mammary glands for any signs of infection or discomfort.
When to Seek Immediate Help: If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately:
- Rapid swelling or redness of the mammary gland(s)
- Discharge from the teat that is yellow, green, bloody, or foul-smelling
- Fever or signs of illness in your dog
- Your dog refusing to eat or drink
By taking prompt action and following your veterinarian's advice, you can help ensure a successful recovery for your nursing dog.