A hernia is the protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening. In cats, the abdominal wall hernias that matter are umbilical, inguinal, perineal and those caused by trauma. The main risks are the organs that slip through and then become trapped. Diaphragmatic hernias, including the peritoneopericardial type, are covered in a separate guide.
Key facts
Hernia at a glance- Species and system: cat; body wall and abdominal organs.
- Anatomy of a true hernia (MSD): a ring, a sac and contents.
- Types here: umbilical (usually congenital), inguinal, perineal (middle-aged to older cats), traumatic abdominal wall and prepubic.
- Diagnosis: palpation, ultrasound and radiographs.
- Treatment: surgical closure of the defect in most cases; urgent if organs are trapped.
- Diaphragmatic hernia: see the diaphragmatic hernia guide.
What's inside
12 sections in the full guide- Key facts
- How the NAVLE tests this
- Cause and pathophysiology
- Clinical signs
- Diagnosis
- Differential diagnoses
- Treatment and management
- Prognosis
- Choosing the next step
- Quick review
- Test yourself
- References
The full guide also has 3 tables, 3 self-test questions and 7 references, available to NAVLE members.
Read the full study guide
The full guide is part of every NAVLE plan, with diagnosis and treatment tables, figures, a quick review and self-test questions. Start a free trial to try the question bank, or log in if you are already a member.