🧷 Umbilical Hernias in Puppies and Kittens – Dr Duncan Houston, 2025

🤰 What Is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia occurs when abdominal contents (like fat or intestines) bulge through the belly button area—where the umbilical cord once was in the womb.

Normally, the umbilical opening closes after birth, but with a hernia the hole remains open and skin becomes the only barrier holding everything in.

🐾 Who Gets Them?

• More common in puppies 🐶 than kittens 🐱.
• Usually present at birth (congenital).
• Often seen during routine health exams.

🩺 Diagnosis

Dogs and cats with umbilical hernias are diagnosed through a simple physical exam—your vet will feel the soft bulge at the belly button.

If the hernia seems large or tender, imaging (x-ray or ultrasound) may be used to check for trapped intestines or other organs.

⚠️ When Is It a Problem?

Small hernias: Often harmless and may close as the pet grows.

Large hernias: Risk of organs getting stuck (strangulated), cutting off blood flow. Look for warning signs:

• Swollen, warm bulge
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite or lethargy

These are emergencies—strangulated hernias require immediate veterinary attention.

🏥 Treatment Options

1. Watchful Waiting

For small, painless hernias, surgery can be safely delayed until the pet is neutered or spayed, usually between 6–9 months of age.

2. Surgical Repair (Hernioplasty)

Large or problematic hernias should be repaired by surgically closing the opening in the abdominal wall, restoring the normal internal support. This is usually done under anesthesia, often at the same time as spay/neuter.

🎯 Why Repair Matters

Leaving a large hernia untreated risks serious complications like strangulation, obstruction, and tissue death. Repair prevents these threats and supports healthy growth.

🧬 Why Do They Happen?

The exact cause of congenital umbilical hernias is unknown, but factors are likely hereditary—so it can run in families.

✅ Key Takeaways

• Puppies and kittens may be born with belly button bulges—umbilical hernias.
• Small hernias are often harmless and may be monitored until routine spay/neuter.
• Large hernias risk organ strangulation—surgical repair is essential.
• Seek veterinary care if the hernia is warm, painful, or if your pet shows worrying symptoms.