lactating problem

Question
Hi Jessica, I have a mother cat who is still nursing her 5 week old kittens and I noticed today that one of her nipples looks swollen and red. We found her and took her into our home when she was pregnant and she hasn't been to a vet, we're not sure if we're going to keep her. We will get her spayed when the kittens are gone but I'm trying to keep the vet bills to a minimum. With 2 other cats and 4 kids my house is pretty full!
My question is can cats get mastitis infections similar to a human mother who is lactating? I'm going to watch it for a day or so and of course bring her into the vet if needed. But I was wondering if there was anything I could do from home to prevent it or help it go away. I would also love any suggestions to how to litter box train them since mother cat will not keep them in one room of the house. I've had another cat who had 2 litters and she kept the babies in one place all the time so it was easy to put food, water and the litter box near by so mom could teach them. My children have been hand feeding them and bringing them to the litter box. The thought of moving the box and food everytime moms moves the babies sounds like alot to do. She moves them every night and we have a 4000 sq. ft. house!We've tried closing her in a bathroom at night but then she'll move them during the day.  Thanks. Tina

Answer
Hi Tina.  Sounds like this mama and the babies have been very lucky to find you!  Absolutely, cats can get mastitis just like people.  And it's often around this age, as the kittens start nursing less.  Do keep a close eye.  If you see any more discoloration, it feels hot to the touch, there is a yellow, green, brown or bloody discharge, or if there is any crusty build up, then mastitis is likely, and she should see a vet for an antibiotic.  In the meantime, you can try holding a cloth soaked with warm water to the area for 10 minutes a few times a day to soothe the pain, if she'll allow it.

As for the kittens and litter training, I really find it best to keep them closed in one room during this process.  As you know, in an open house, it can be about impossible to find little spots they may decide are suitable to use as a litter box.  So I would keep them confined to a den or other small room until they're well trained.  My litters actually stay confined to my bedroom (I wish I had as much room as you do!) until I'm satisfied that they're using the box perfectly.