Introduction

Mastitis is an uncommon inflammation of mammary gland in the feline. It is caused by bacterial infection of lactating gland or during pseudopregnancy, accumulation of the milk which is called galactostasis.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to share detailed medical diagnosis of gangrenous mastitis related to galactostasis in a cat.

Methods (Case Presentation)

Two-year-old, about 2.75-kg, female domestic shorthaired house cat was referred to the veterinary hospital, with the chief complaint of anorexia, lethargy, and anxiety of 3 days' duration with a noticeable decrease in body condition and large, open, dark red wounds on her ventral caudal abdomen. A diagnosis of acute fulminant mastitis of the second caudal left and right mammary gland with abscessation and gangrenous involvement swelling was made. Dark brown fluid was aseptically collected from the swollen glands and submitted to microbiological culture. Isolated microorganisms were identified based on macro- and microscopical morphology by Gram stain, culture characteristics, biochemical profile and molecular techniques.

Results

Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli were identified as the causative agents according to biochemical tests. Escherichia coli was identified also by molecular study using PCR. The patient was successfully treated with systematic antibiotics and open wound management using surgical debridement and lavage followed by wound dressings using local antibiotic.

Conclusions

This case report highlights the gangrenous mastitis and its causative agents in a feline, in addition to the response to the medical treatment procedure.