Hernias are among the clinical problems that felines might have and need surgery for. The condition is known as a cat hernia when internal organs or fat push through a rip in the muscle walls caused by genetic abnormalities, intense traumas, or other circumstances that weaken muscles. In some circumstances, surgery could be needed.
Let’s examine every aspect of feline hernia, including its types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and surgical recovery.
Read on to find out more.
Types of Hernias in Cats
Below are the most common types of hernias found in cats.
Inguinal Hernias
Inguinal hernias are common in male cats and arise when a portion of the intestine or bladder passes through the inguinal canal in the groin area. It may be caused by trauma or a genetic predisposition. These felines tend to get this hernia more often than female cats.
Umbilical Hernias
An umbilical hernia is a stomach tissue poking through the umbilicus or belly button. Due to a weak region in their stomach walls that typically arises from failing to shut in time after giving birth, this type of hernia is more common in kittens.
Diaphragmatic Hernias
Organs like the liver, spleen, or intestines may protrude through openings in the diaphragm, the muscle dividing the chest from the abdomen. This problem is called a diaphragmatic hernia.
Perineal Hernias
Perineal hernias, which are more rampant in male cats and usually caused by the weakening of the pelvic muscles, happen when the anus, prostate, or bladder protrudes through the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor.
Hiatal Hernias
A hiatal hernia develops when a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity via the diaphragm, most usually due to a congenital disability or trauma.
Signs of Cat Hernias
The symptoms of feline hernias differ based on the kind and size of the hernia. Typical symptoms include:
- Swelling or bulge in the affected spot
- Pain or discomfort
- Throwing up
- Diarrhea
- Trouble breathing
- Sleepiness
If your cat shows these symptoms, it must be examined by a veterinarian. To identify hernias and gauge their severity, the specialist will probably do a checkup, blood work analysis, and imaging examinations like a cat X-ray or an ultrasound for dogs in Greensboro.
Treatment Options for Feline Hernias
Vets often perform surgery to treat a feline’s hernia and avoid additional problems. However, various procedures may be required depending on the kind of hernia.
- Treating inguinal hernias involves closing off the inguinal ring using sutures or mesh.
- Umbilical hernias might be repaired by extracting and suturing away the hernia sac.
- Diaphragmatic hernias may require more complicated surgical intervention to shut the hole in the diaphragm and recover its integrity.
- Perineal hernias might be fixed by suturing together the muscles and tissues that make up the pelvic floor.
- Hiatal hernias may need surgical intervention to reposition the stomach and shut any openings in the diaphragm.
After surgery, watching your cat’s symptoms of infection, bleeding, or pain is essential. A veterinarian may administer antibiotics and pain relievers as part of their therapy to support faster recovery.
You can check out https://www.greensboro.carolinavet.com/site/specialties/surgery to learn more about cat surgery.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to cat hernias, time is of the essence. These medical issues require prompt attention from a qualified veterinarian. Surgery may be necessary depending on the hernia’s type and severity. After the operation, you must watch your cat’s condition and diligently follow the post-surgical care instructions. Most cats can recover from hernia surgery and lead everyday, healthy lives with proper care.
