316 DISEASES OF THE MAMMARY GLANDS 



CONGESTION OF THE MAMMARY GLANDS. 



A normal condition occurring at the end of the gestation 

 period, and during lactation. It has been observed in non- 

 pregnant and virgin animals. The glands become enlarged, 

 hot, and sensitive. No treatment is necessary. 



MAMMITIS. MASTITIS. 



Definition. An inflammation of the mammary glands. 

 The inflammation may involve one or more of the glands. 

 Mastitis is a common condition in bitches and cats shortly 

 after parturition. 



Etiology. In the majority of cases mastitis is due to infec- 

 tion. Pyogenic organisms enter usually through the teat 

 canal to the acini of the gland, and from this point spread to 

 the perilobular lymphatics. 



Premature removal of the young seems to be a predisposing 

 factor as it permits the milk to collect, congesting the gland 

 as is often noted in cats. Streptococcus infection of the 

 mammary glands of the cat has been quite often observed. 

 It frequently has the appearance of a specific disease appear- 

 ing as an enzootic in catteries. Wounds and contusions of 

 the gland will produce mammitis and the degree will depend 

 upon whether or not there is infection. Chronic mammitis is 

 observed occasionally in the bitch and cat, resulting either 

 from acute mammitis, or occurring independently. 



Symptoms. One or more of the mammary glands are 

 swollen, hot, and very sensitive on palpation. As there are 

 no milk cisterns in the gland, the condition extends immedi- 

 ately to the glandular tissue producing marked inflammation 

 and edema of portions of the gland. On palpation the 

 portion aft'ected can be detected. Later as the infection 

 develops the milk will be found changed into a grayish, 

 purulent mass sometimes mixed with blood. Abscesses, 

 often multiple, frequently develop. They open and dis- 

 charge a reddish, purulent mass. General symptoms are 

 quite marked in some cases, especially in cats. The toxins 

 absorbed produce general intoxication which is often fatal. 



