Understanding Hard Lumps in Post-Nursing Cats: Engorgement and Resolution
It's concerning when a mother cat develops a large, hard lump in her lower abdomen after nursing. This could be due to several reasons, most commonly an oversupply of milk (engorgement) or the development of a mammary mass. If it's due to engorgement, it often resolves on its own. However, if the lump is a mammary mass, prompt veterinary attention is crucial. During lactation, a hard lump in a cat's abdomen could signify milk engorgement. In such cases, consider extending the weaning period for the kittens or use a breast pump to extract excess milk. Sometimes, kittens might suckle too vigorously, causing trauma and leading to a mammary lump. You can try warm compresses to see if the lump subsides. If not, a vet visit is necessary. Additionally, acute mastitis, a common issue during lactation, could be the cause and should be addressed by a veterinarian immediately. Will Milk Engorgement Resolve on Its Own? If a mother cat has an excess of milk after her kittens are weaned,...