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Why are my mother cat's breasts swollen after weaning kittens?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 years old | 6 lbs

My queen is a nursing mother yesterday I separate her from her kittens (6 weeks old) I noticed this morning her breasts is enlarged, swollen and stiff ,, What should i do is it normal? Plz help

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Harrah White

Veterinary Technician

Published on March 19th, 2017

After taking the kittens away it is normal for the mom to become engorged .. over the next couple of days it is important to monitor that she is eating well, drinking well, and does not seem to be in pain. The milk takes time to go away and this can take up to one week.

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5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

    Published on September 3rd, 2017

    It is normal for a nursing mom to continue to make milk for a while after her kittens are taken away. I would be concerned if any of the mammary glands are red, bruised, painful or have an abnormal discharge because mammary glands can become infected. If the mammary glands are just engorged with milk, leave them alone. Do not attempt to milk her or apply any compress because stimulation of the areas will cause her to continue to produce milk. If any of the mammary glands appear concerning, I would have your vet examine her. I hope that helps! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 21st, 2018

    I am afraid 6 weeks is way too early to wean the kittens, It would be better if you could take them back for at least another three, preferably 6 weeks. At 6 weeks these kittens still suckle a lot of milk and they also need their siblings to learn to socialize, hunt , play fight etc. Your cat's breasts will reduce over time, but it will hurt the first few days. As long as they do not look inflamed and do not hurt her when you touch them, she should be ok.

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