Cat engorged with milk.

Question
Hi, my cat had babies and I recently found homes for them. I noticed she is commpletely engourged with milk and probably uncomfortable. What can I do to help her.. I can and she will let me give her a bath if you think that may help
Thanks,
Becky

Answer
Becky,

Unfortunately the fact that the mom is engorged with milk means that the kittens were not weaned. It is always best to leave kittens with their mom until they are weaned and socialized (about 10-12 weeks old). You will have to see your vet as soon as you can because a cat that is engorged with milk is at risk of developing an infection in her mammary glands. It is quite possible that mom may need special care and a course of antibiotics to prevent a painful case of mastitis. It is important that you realize that engorged mammary glands are extremely uncomfortable and an infection can make a cat feel quite miserable. In terms of immediate first aid I suggest that you try applying a hot damp face cloth to her swollen breasts every couple of hours. Mom may not allow you to apply hot compresses because she is likely quite painful. The hot compresses might help to alleviate her discomfort until she can be seen on Monday by your vet. In order to prevent a recurrence of this situation I highly suggest that you spay this kitty to prevent further accidental litters. Spaying and neutering pets has medical and behavioral benefits. Medical advantages to spaying a female cat include a decreased incidence of infections and cancers in her mammary glands and reproductive organs as well as the fact that pets who are spayed tend to be healthier overall and live longer lives. Behaviorally cats who are altered tend to be much less likely to scent mark with urine, caterwaul in order to advertise availability to mate, fight and wander. The biggest advantage to spaying and neutering is that there are no more risks of unwanted kittens to care for. Pet overpopulation is a serious problem and euthanasia rates for cats and kittens in shelter systems are staggering, simply because there is just not enough space to care for all of the unwanted pets that are born each year. Spaying and neutering will help to ensure that less animals are euthanised each year simply because there just isn't enough space in the shelter and their time has run out. I do hope that you find this information helpful. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me again.