Decoding Mastitis in Small Rodent Pets: Pathophysiology, Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles, and Future Directions in...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Rodent Health
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Mastitis commonly affects various animal species, including hamsters, gerbils, mice, and rats.
• These rodents are vital models in biomedical research for mammary gland infections.
• Limited information exists on the natural occurrence, epidemiology, and management of mastitis in these species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current knowledge on mastitis in small pet rodents.
• To examine the anatomy, causes, clinical signs, pathology, and treatment of mastitis in these animals.
• To identify knowledge gaps and emphasize the need for further research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific articles and veterinary resources.
• Synthesis of information on mastitis in hamsters, gerbils, mice, and rats.
• Analysis of anatomical, etiological, clinical, pathological, and therapeutic aspects.

Main Results:

• Mastitis presents with diverse clinical signs and pathological findings in small rodents.
• Bacterial infections are a primary cause, though other factors may contribute.
• Current treatment strategies are extrapolated from other species, with limited specific data for rodents.

Conclusions:

• This review is the first to focus specifically on mastitis in small pet rodents.
• There is a significant need for more research into the epidemiology and effective management of mastitis in these companion animals.
• Understanding and addressing mastitis is crucial for maintaining the health and welfare of pet rodents.