CHAPTER VIII. 



DISEASES OF THE MAMMARY GLANDS. 



Examination.— These glands may be examined by observing 

 their size, condition, and by palpation to note their consist- 

 ency or the presence of wounds, inflammation, abscesses, etc. 



WOUNDS AND INJURIES OF THE MAMMARY 

 GLANDS. 



In the bitch and cat, wounds and bruises of the mammary 

 glands are quite common. They result in most instances 

 from being run over by vehicles, by falling, from bites of 

 other animals, or the glands may be punctured by sharp 

 objects. The degree of injury will vary greatly. In some 

 cases it will consist in a simple, slight contusion of the gland- 

 ular substance; in others bruising with hemorrhage into the 

 gland producing a hematoma, and in some cases abscesses 

 result. A careful examination should be made to determine 

 the degree and extent of the injury. 



Treatment.— The treatment will depend to a great extent 

 on the condition of the glands. In slight contusions but little 

 treatment is necessary, while in more extensive bruising, 

 warm applications should be applied in the form of a warm 

 antiseptic pack containing lysol (2 per cent.). In open 

 wounds their extent should be determined and treated with 

 antiseptics. An antiseptic pack may be applied when the 

 animal interferes with the wound by biting or licking it 

 excessively. 



When abscesses develop in the gland, they should be 

 opened freely to allow good drainage and the wound treated 

 as above. In most cases recovery takes place promptly. If 

 fistula or necrosis of the gland should develop, it may be 

 amputated. 



