Mastitis?

[Dry Rot]

I have a Highland mare which foaled back in October. The foal was weaned about two months ago. Today, we noticed that there is a swelling just in front of the udder, where the milk vein is situated. It has been suggested that this could be mastitis. Could this be correct? I've never heard of mastitis anywhere but in the udder before -- and is this likely so long after weaning? If so, what next?

 

[Cocoa]

I do not know much about mastitis I am afraid but would suggest you post this in the breeding section as they are a knowledgable bunch and probably have lots of experience.

Also if you are worried give your vet a call.

 

[Totty]

Hi. If you think it's Mastitis call you vet out as this could lead to a nasty infection. Try udder cream to rub in and see if you can draw off any milk if it's hard. But yes would def call the vet.

Let me know how you get on.

 

[shazza283]

There are some lymph nodes associaed with the udder located directly in front of it and they sometimes come up associated with things going on in the udder - could just be a remnant rom the processes involved with the udder returning to it's inactive state - but they do come up when the udder is enflamed also - this could be due to matitis but also can be caused by fly bites etc etc - mastitis in mares can happen anytime - even in mares that aren't lactating - i've seen it in mares that haven't ever had a foal!
Masitis is usually pretty obvious - swollen hot hard udder and usually painful - so handle with care!!!
If there's no swelling and no heat in the udder it's unlikely to be mastitis and it's one to keep a close eye on - if the swelling doesn't go down within a week I'd be thinking get a vet to look at it.

 

[Dry Rot]

There are some lymph nodes associaed with the udder located directly in front of it and they sometimes come up associated with things going on in the udder - could just be a remnant rom the processes involved with the udder returning to it's inactive state - but they do come up when the udder is enflamed also - this could be due to matitis but also can be caused by fly bites etc etc - mastitis in mares can happen anytime - even in mares that aren't lactating - i've seen it in mares that haven't ever had a foal!
Masitis is usually pretty obvious - swollen hot hard udder and usually painful - so handle with care!!!
If there's no swelling and no heat in the udder it's unlikely to be mastitis and it's one to keep a close eye on - if the swelling doesn't go down within a week I'd be thinking get a vet to look at it.

Thanks, that sounds sensible. There is no change in the swelling today and she seems otherwise fine. I will keep an eye on it as you suggest. I have seen plenty of cases of mastitis in sheep so did wonder when I was advised it could be that.