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My cat's nipples are red after nursing. Is it mastitis or serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 7 months old | 5 lbs

Ginger gave birth to 3 kittens, she is done breast feeding but this redness on her nipples has not reduced. I have tried ointments and cant get bandages to stay. Does she need antibiotics or is it possibly more serious? I need to get her fixed asap, but I know she'll have to heal first. Can you give me any insight on what its going to take to treat her?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 27th, 2018

I'd be very concerned that Ginger could have mastitis, which is an infection of the mammary glands that can occur after kittens are weaned. Mastitis can be fatal without treatment, and it does require antibiotics. I would take her into a vet immediately for treatment. Best of luck.

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