Feline Mastitis Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Mastitis is an inflammatory condition of one or more mammary glands, typically caused by bacterial infection. While relatively uncommon in cats compared to dogs, mastitis represents a clinically significant condition that can rapidly progress to life-threatening sepsis or gangrenous tissue necrosis if not promptly diagnosed and treated. The condition occurs almost exclusively in lactating queens during the postpartum period, though it may also develop secondary to feline mammary fibroepithelial hyperplasia (FEH) or pseudopregnancy. Understanding the etiology, clinical presentation, and treatment options for feline mastitis is essential for NAVLE preparation and clinical practice.

Feline Mammary Gland Anatomy

Cats normally have four pairs of mammary glands (8 total) arranged in two parallel chains along the ventral abdomen. The glands are designated based on anatomical location as T1 (cranial thoracic), T2 (caudal thoracic), A1 (cranial abdominal), and A2 (caudal abdominal/inguinal). Each nipple contains 5-7 lactiferous pores with 1-3 openings on the tip and the remainder on the sides.

Mammary Gland Nomenclature and Blood Supply

Etiology and Pathophysiology

Types of Mastitis

Septic Mastitis: Caused by bacterial infection of the mammary gland, typically through ascending infection via the teat canal during nursing. Bacteria may also enter through wounds, scratches from nursing kittens, or hematogenous spread from other infection sites (e.g., metritis).