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Dr. Laci Schaible
|March 31, 2022
If you notice a lump on your cat's belly after abdominal surgery, you may be worried that it's a hernia. While a cat hernia after being spayed is possible, swelling on your cat's stomach could be a number of other things — but there's usually no reason to worry.
Read on to learn more about the different kinds of hernias, other reasons for abdominal lumps and bumps in cats, and when to seek veterinary care.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, hernias of the abdominal wall are common in all domestic species, and cats are no exception. Hernias are defects, or holes, in the walls within the cat's body that separate one part from the other. An example of one of these "walls" is the abdominal wall that keeps your cat's abdominal organs in place and separate from tissue and fat directly underneath the skin. Hernias are often classified by location, including:
Hernias can vary in severity but are often congenital, or present at birth, especially in kittens. According to a journal in VetRecord, there is a genetic and developmental basis for umbilical hernias in cats, as well as dogs. Alternatively, hernias can occur at various points throughout a cat's life. Traumatic hernias may be caused by events such as a difficult birth or a physical trauma. In some cases, a hernia can develop after surgery.
Hernias are easily diagnosed as your veterinarian will usually be able to feel the defect and gently replace the contents that have shifted into their hernia's "pouch." There are a few cases where an ultrasound or radiographs (X-rays) are necessary if the diagnosis is not clear based upon palpation.
For most minor hernias, it is generally safe to keep an eye on the hernia, making sure it doesn't grow until your vet can repair it surgically. Surgical repair for kittens with hernias will usually be scheduled for the time of the spay or neuter surgery, so the patient only has to undergo anesthesia and recovery a single time. As long as the cat is doing well and behaving normally at home, a hernia is not an emergency.
If the hernia is quite sizable or enlarges, it isn't safe to wait. In this case, the hernia must be addressed soon to avoid risking the abdominal cavity contents becoming trapped or twisted, compromising the cat's blood supply. This can lead to a life-threatening situation. A cat may be in critical condition because of a severe hernia, though this is uncommon.
Post-surgical swelling is often benign but may need further examination by your vet. Here are some of the most common reasons for swelling after surgery:
Remember, if you suspect your furry friend has developed a hernia after being spayed or neutered, contact your vet. They will most likely recommend a recheck to determine if it is a hernia or if there is another explanation for the abdominal swelling. Hernias have a great prognosis and are typically resolved with surgery.
Dr. Laci Schaible is a small animal veterinarian, veterinary journalist, and a thought leader in the industry. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University and her Masters in Legal Studies from Wake Forest University.
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
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Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.