If you’re searching for “cat hernia” or “hernia cat,” you’re probably worried that your cat may have one. First things first—don’t panic. Cat hernias are relatively uncommon and often treatable, especially when they’re identified early.
In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about feline hernias, including common symptoms, possible causes, diagnostic steps, treatment options, recovery, and long-term prognosis. Understanding what to watch for and when to seek veterinary care can help ensure the best outcome for your cat.
Can Cats Get Hernias?
Yes, cats can get hernias, but they are uncommon. Most cats will live their entire lives without ever developing one. Hernias can occur in both kittens and adult cats, though the causes differ.
Kittens may be born with congenital hernias, meaning the condition is present at birth due to incomplete closure of body tissues. Adult cats can develop hernias later in life, most often as a result of trauma, injury, or complications following surgery.
While the presence of a hernia can be concerning, many cases are treatable—especially when identified early and evaluated by a veterinarian.
What Is a Cat Hernia?
A cat hernia is an abnormal opening in the abdominal or diaphragmatic wall that allows internal tissues—such as fat or, in some cases, organs—to protrude through. Hernias can be external or internal. External hernias push through the muscle wall and are often visible or palpable from the outside. Internal hernias remain within the body cavity, making them harder to detect and more likely to require diagnostic imaging for confirmation.
Hernias are also classified as reducible or non-reducible. A reducible hernia can be gently pushed back into the body and may not cause immediate discomfort. A non-reducible hernia, on the other hand, cannot be pushed back in and is often painful. If left untreated, a reducible hernia can become non-reducible and more serious over time.
External hernias usually appear as soft, squishy lumps under the skin. This texture is due to the hernia containing internal tissues, such as fat or a portion of the intestine, protruding through a weakness or opening in the muscle rather than forming a firm, solid mass.
How Do Cats Get Hernias?
Cats can develop hernias for several reasons, most of which involve weakness or damage to the abdominal or diaphragmatic wall. Common causes include:
Cause | Explanation |
Congenital defect | In some kittens, the umbilical ring or other body tissues fail to close properly after birth, creating a weakness that allows tissue to protrude. |
Trauma or injury | Accidents such as car impacts, falls, or blunt force injuries can tear or weaken the abdominal or diaphragmatic wall. |
Weak abdominal muscles | Some cats naturally have weaker muscle structure, increasing susceptibility to hernia formation over time. |
Pregnancy and birth | The physical strain of pregnancy and delivery can stretch or weaken the abdominal wall. |
Straining | Chronic straining from constipation, bloating, or urinary issues increases abdominal pressure and may contribute to hernias. |
Surgery | Hernias can develop at surgical sites if healing is incomplete or the tissue is stressed too early. |
Suture failure | In rare cases, improper suture material or technique may allow tissue to protrude after surgery. |
Excessive activity post-surgery | Jumping or running too soon after spay or neuter surgery can stress healing tissue and increase hernia risk. |
Understanding these causes can help guardians recognize risk factors and seek veterinary care promptly if a hernia is suspected.
Types of Cat Hernias
Hernias in cats are classified by their location, rather than by severity, as many other conditions are. There are several types of feline hernias, but three are considered the most common.
Hernia Type | Location | Common Cause | Severity | Typical Treatment |
Umbilical | Belly button area | Congenital defect | Usually mild | Monitoring or surgical repair if persistent |
Inguinal | Groin area | Congenital weakness or trauma | Mild to moderate | Monitoring or surgery if non-reducible |
Diaphragmatic | Between abdomen and chest | Trauma or congenital defect | High | Surgical repair once stabilized |
Hiatal | Diaphragm opening near esophagus | Congenital or trauma-related | Moderate to high | Medical management or surgery |
Umbilical
Umbilical hernias are the most common type, especially in kittens. In most cases, affected kittens are born with them, making these hernias congenital. A kitten hernia is usually painless and often closes on its own as the kitten grows, typically within 3 to 4 months after birth.
Surgery may be recommended if the hernia does not close on its own by the end of the fourth month, becomes non-reducible, or causes symptoms such as pain, vomiting, or digestive issues. In many cases, umbilical hernias are repaired during a routine spay or neuter procedure, minimizing the need for additional surgery.
Inguinal
Inguinal hernias occur in the groin area, where tissue—often fat or part of the intestine—pushes through the inguinal canal, a small passage in the abdominal wall. In cats, these hernias are less common than umbilical hernias and may occur in both kittens and adults.
Some inguinal hernias are reducible and may not cause immediate discomfort. However, they can become more serious if organs become trapped, which can lead to pain or impaired blood flow. Because of this risk, surgical repair is often recommended, especially if the hernia is non-reducible, enlarging, or causing symptoms.
A veterinarian can determine whether monitoring or surgery is the safest option based on the hernia’s size, contents, and the cat’s overall health.
Diaphragmatic
Diaphragmatic hernias occur when abdominal organs move into the chest cavity through an opening or tear in the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. This type of hernia is most commonly caused by trauma, such as a fall or car accident, though it can also be congenital in some cases.
Unlike umbilical or inguinal hernias, diaphragmatic hernias can be life-threatening. When organs crowd the chest cavity, they can interfere with normal lung expansion, leading to breathing difficulties and medical emergencies. Prompt veterinary care is critical, and surgical repair is often required once the cat is stable.
Hiatal
Hiatal hernias are internal and the rarest type of hernia in cats. They occur at the opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus passes through, allowing part of the stomach to move into the chest cavity. Hiatal hernias may be congenital or develop after trauma. They are sometimes called “sliding hernias” because the stomach can move in and out of the chest cavity.
One possible long-term complication of a hiatal hernia is aspiration pneumonia, a lung infection caused by inhaling foreign material. This can happen because a hiatal hernia may allow stomach contents or acid to flow back up into the esophagus and throat, where they can then be inhaled into the lungs. Due to these risks, hiatal hernias often require careful veterinary evaluation and ongoing management.
Cat Hernia Symptoms
Hernias in cats can present with a variety of signs, depending on the type and severity. Common symptoms include:
Visible swelling or lumps under the skin
Lump that disappears or changes size (especially in reducible hernias)
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Blood in urine (hematuria/uria)
Lethargy or reduced activity
Breathing difficulties (specific to diaphragmatic or hiatal hernias)
Hernias that consist only of fat—without any internal organs—may not cause any symptoms beyond the visible lump. This is why regular veterinary checkups are important, even if the cat appears otherwise healthy.
What Does a Cat Hernia Look Like?
Hernias in cats can vary in appearance, but they often present as soft, squishy lumps or bulges beneath the skin. Common locations include the belly (umbilical area) or the groin (inguinal area).
These lumps are often painless, especially in reducible hernias, but they may become more noticeable when your cat:
Strains or stretches
Stands up or moves
Vocalizes (e.g., meows)
Because hernias can sometimes be subtle, any new lump or bulge should be evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Are Cat Hernias Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of a cat hernia depends on its type and severity:
Diagnostic Method | Used For | What It Detects |
Physical exam | External hernias | Presence, size, and reducibility of the hernia |
X-ray imaging | Internal or large hernias | Organ displacement or chest involvement |
Ultrasound | Complex or internal hernias | Soft tissue and organ entrapment |
Blood panel | Pre-surgical assessment | Overall health and surgical readiness |
Early and accurate diagnosis is key to choosing the right treatment and preventing complications.
Treatment of Cat Hernias
Not all cat hernias require the same approach—treatment depends on the hernia’s type, size, and contents. Veterinarians tailor the plan to the individual cat’s needs. Common treatment options include:
1. Monitoring
For small, uncomplicated hernias in cats, careful observation may be recommended. Guardians monitor the hernia at home for:
Increases in size
Signs of pain or discomfort
Vomiting or changes in appetite
Monitoring is only suitable if the hernia is reducible and not causing problems, but regular veterinary checkups are still important.
2. Manual Reduction
In cases of mild to moderate hernias, a veterinarian may perform a manual reduction, gently pushing the protruding tissue back into the body.
This is not a permanent solution and often requires follow-up surgery due to the risk of recurrence.
It is performed in the clinic under veterinary supervision to ensure safety.
3. Surgical Repair
Surgery is the most definitive treatment and is usually reserved for:
Hernias that are painful, non-reducible, or causing vomiting or appetite loss
Large hernias or those with a high risk of organ entrapment
Hernias unlikely to heal on their own
Surgical repair is generally safe and long-lasting, providing the best chance of preventing recurrence. Even when elective, surgery is recommended for hernias that could cause complications later.
With timely evaluation and the right treatment, most cats recover well and regain normal function.
Cat Hernia Surgery and Recovery
Surgical repair of a cat hernia is a carefully planned procedure that follows strict safety protocols to ensure the best outcome.
Before Surgery
Fasting: The night before surgery, your cat should avoid food and have limited water. This reduces the risk of aspiration during sedation.
During Surgery
Your cat will be placed under sedation or anesthesia.
The surgical area is shaved and sterilized.
The veterinarian carefully repositions any organs that have protruded through the hernia.
Damaged tissues or organs are repaired if necessary.
The muscle wall opening is closed using sutures or, in some cases, sterile mesh.
The skin and overlying tissue are closed with sutures, which may be dissolvable or require later removal.
If your cat is also scheduled for spay or neuter, this can often be performed at the same time.
After Surgery
Cats are usually sent home with pain medication to ensure comfort.
Activity should be limited during the healing period, though keeping a cat calm can be challenging—gentle confinement or quiet spaces help.
If your cat tends to lick or scratch surgical sites, your veterinarian may recommend an E-collar to prevent interference with healing.
With proper post-operative care and monitoring, most cats recover well from hernia surgery and return to normal activity within a few weeks.
Cat Hernia Surgery Cost
Hernia surgery for cats can be expensive, but it is often necessary to ensure your cat’s health and comfort.
Typical cost range: $250 – $1,000 for a simple, uncomplicated hernia repair.
Factors affecting cost:
Size and complexity of the hernia
Location of the hernia (e.g., abdominal vs diaphragmatic)
Region or clinic where the surgery is performed
Emergency surgeries are usually more expensive than planned procedures, regardless of hernia type or size.
While the price may seem high, timely surgical treatment can prevent complications, improve your cat’s quality of life, and reduce long-term veterinary costs.
Can Cat Hernias Be Prevented?
While not all hernias can be prevented, there are steps guardians can take to reduce the risk of trauma-related or secondary hernias:
Congenital hernias: These are present at birth and cannot be prevented.
Limit trauma risk: Keeping your cat as an indoor cat reduces the chances of accidents that can cause hernias.
Reduce fall hazards: Secure windows, doors, balconies, and other elevated areas to prevent falls.
Address straining promptly: Constipation, urinary difficulties, or bloating can increase abdominal pressure and contribute to hernia formation. Seek veterinary care early to prevent complications.
Regular veterinary checkups: Routine exams help monitor for early signs of hernias and ensure overall health and wellbeing.
Proactive care and a safe environment can significantly reduce the likelihood of hernia-related complications.
Hernias After a Cat Is Spayed
It’s a common misconception that hernias are caused by a botched spay or neuter surgery. In most cases, what appears to be a hernia after surgery is actually normal post-surgical swelling.
This swelling can be influenced by:
Overactivity soon after surgery
Reaction to sutures used to close the incision
Inflammation as the body naturally heals
True post-surgical hernias are rare but can occur if:
The cat is too active before the incision fully heals
Internal sutures fail or the incision doesn’t close properly
To minimize risks, ensure your cat remains calm and avoids jumping or running during the recovery period.
Seek veterinary attention if the surgical site shows signs of concern, including:
Warmth to the touch
Excessive pain or tenderness
Discharge or pus
Most post-surgery swelling resolves on its own, and true hernias after spay/neuter are uncommon with proper post-operative care.
Are Cat Hernias Painful?
Most cat hernias are not painful, particularly those that are small or contain only fat. These hernias may appear as soft lumps but typically don’t cause discomfort for your cat.
Pain can develop if the hernia in cats becomes more severe, such as when organs get trapped, blood flow is restricted, an infection occurs, or significant inflammation develops. In such cases, cats may show signs like lethargy, vomiting, or difficulty moving, and immediate veterinary attention is necessary.
How Long Can a Cat Live With a Hernia?
A cat’s lifespan is usually not affected if the hernia is small and receives appropriate veterinary care. However, untreated hernias, particularly those where organs become trapped (strangulated), can become life-threatening and may significantly reduce lifespan if not addressed promptly.
When to See a Vet
You should contact a veterinarian if your cat shows any concerning signs, such as:
Sign | Why It Matters | Action Needed |
Painful or hot lump | May indicate inflammation or trapped tissue | Prompt vet visit |
Rapid swelling | Possible worsening or strangulation | Urgent evaluation |
Breathing difficulty | Chest cavity involvement | Emergency care |
Lethargy | Pain or systemic stress | Veterinary assessment |
Even if the hernia seems minor, reaching out for professional advice is always a good idea. Early evaluation is critical. The sooner a hernia is diagnosed and managed, the better the outcome for your cat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can we do if our cat has a hernia?
If your cat has a hernia, schedule a veterinary appointment for evaluation. The vet will determine the type, severity, and the best course of action to ensure your cat’s safety and comfort.
How often do cats get hernias as a complication of spaying?
Hernias caused directly by spaying are very rare. Most post-surgery lumps are normal swelling rather than true hernias.
What does a hernia after spay look like for a cat?
After a spay, a hernia-like appearance usually presents as a soft, squishy lump near the surgical site. It is typically harmless swelling, though it should be monitored for warmth, pain, or discharge.
What happens if cat hernia is left untreated?
Untreated hernias can worsen over time. Severe hernias, or those that trap organs or restrict blood flow, can become life-threatening, making timely veterinary care essential.
