What is Mastitis?
Mastitis is the inflammation or infection of one or more mammary glands in a lactating bitch. It is not uncommon, especially in bitches nursing large or demanding litters. While it can start off mild, mastitis can quickly become serious and painful, affecting both the dam and her puppies if not recognised and treated early. In some cases, it can even lead to life-threatening sepsis.
Causes of Mastitis
Mastitis is usually caused by bacterial infection. The most common sources of infection include:
- Unsanitary whelping conditions
- Trauma from rough or excessive suckling
- Teat injuries or scratches from sharp puppy nails
- Pooling of milk in glands (especially in small litters)
- Poor maternal hygiene or compromised immunity
Common bacteria involved include E. coli, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus species.
Signs of Mastitis in Dogs
Be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
- Warm, swollen, or firm mammary glands
- Painful or discoloured glands (red, purple, or darkened)
- Discoloured milk (yellow, green, brown, or bloody)
- Lethargy or reluctance to nurse
- Fever, trembling, vomiting, or anorexia
- Puppies failing to thrive or vocalising excessively (possible toxic milk)
Mastitis may start mildly but can quickly progress to more severe forms, including abscesses and gangrene.
Diagnosis and Veterinary Assessment
Diagnosis is usually based on history (a lactating bitch) and clinical signs. Your vet may recommend:
- Milk cytology: To detect infection and evaluate white blood cell changes
- Culture and sensitivity: To determine the most effective antibiotic
- Blood tests: To check for systemic infection
- Ultrasound: To detect abscesses or tissue damage
Treatment of Mastitis
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Early detection offers the best chance of recovery.
1. Antibiotics
Broad-spectrum antibiotics that are safe for nursing puppies are typically prescribed. Common options include:
- Clavulanic acid + Amoxicillin
- Cephalexin
- Trimethoprim–Sulpha
Always complete the full course as directed by your vet.
2. Supportive Care
- Apply warm compresses every 4–6 hours to improve milk flow and relieve pain
- Use cool cabbage leaves after compresses to soothe inflammation
- Hydration and nutrition are critical, especially if the dam is unwell
- Calorie restriction and low-dose furosemide (under veterinary direction) can help reduce milk production if needed
👉 Reusable Microfibre Towels and Gauze Swabs are ideal for compresses
3. Pain Relief
- Opioids (under vet supervision) can be used short-term
- NSAIDs should be used cautiously due to risks to neonates
- Tramadol is sometimes used, with veterinary guidance
Should Puppies Continue Nursing?
In most cases, yes. Nursing helps keep the milk flowing and may aid in recovery. However, you must stop nursing from the affected gland if:
- The gland is too painful or abscessed
- The pups show signs of toxic milk syndrome (bloating, squealing, failure to thrive)
In these cases, hand-rearing may be necessary.
👉 Shop Milk Replacers & Feeding Equipment and Nipples
When Surgery is Needed
In rare cases, the affected gland may become necrotic (blackened, cold, and non-functional). These situations require surgical debridement and general anaesthesia. Follow-up wound care will be essential.
Mastitis or Galactostasis?
Galactostasis is a non-infectious milk stasis where the gland becomes full, warm, and firm but not infected. The dam remains well. Management is conservative:
- Encourage gentle nursing
- Apply warm compresses
- Consider mild calorie restriction
- Seek veterinary advice if unsure
Daily Teat Care for Prevention
Good hygiene is your best defence against mastitis. Include these simple steps in your daily care routine:
- Clean the dam’s teats daily with a soft, damp cloth (using warm water) to remove dried milk or debris
- Allow the skin to air dry completely before the puppies nurse again
- This practice supports skin health, reduces bacterial build-up, and helps maintain mammary gland integrity
Prevention Tips for Breeders
- Maintain a clean and dry whelping area
- Trim puppy nails regularly to avoid teat trauma
- Observe the dam’s mammary glands daily, especially in the first 3 weeks postpartum
- Support the dam with adequate calories, hydration, and rest
- Use disinfectant sprays on minor scratches or teat injuries
👉 Nail Scissors for tiny puppies
Final Thoughts
Mastitis in dogs can develop quickly and become serious without early intervention. By recognising the signs, maintaining good hygiene, and responding quickly with the right care and veterinary support, most bitches can recover fully and continue caring for their litter.
