Mastitis or engorgement?

Question
Hi, my mama cat is showing signs of mastitis just this afternoon. I have tried the hot compress and seperated her from the kittens (5 wks old) and have emailed my vet. until i hear from him (and his office opens in the morning)i dont know what else to do for her. obviously she is not comfortable. i have amoxi left over from the kittens who had an eye infection - could i give her some until i get her to the vet tomorrow? if so, i have no idea how much to give her.
thanks for your suggestions,
shellie

Answer
Hi Shellie.  Sorry I didn't receive your message until this morning.  In case you haven't heard from the vet, yet - giving her amoxi is okay.  Look at the box.  If it says the strength is 50mg/ml, then she should have 1ml for about a 10-lb cat.  However, be sure the amoxi is less than 10 days old, and tell the vet you have started using it at your visit.

As for mastitis, it's best to allow the kittens to nurse if mama doesn't kick them away or appear to be in too much pain.  Most times, nursing will help mastitis pass, sometimes without even needing antibiotics.  I'd put the kittens back with her and watch to see if their nursing seems to bother her too much.

Warm compresses can help simple engorgement by drawing out small amounts of milk, but they can make mastitis more painful by engorging the blood vessels.  So cold compresses are best for true mastitis.  With mastitis, you may see red or purple discoloration, lines leading away from the nipple area, heat when touched, and discolored or crusty discharge from the teat.