My cat's hernia surgery: What's recovery, pain, and travel like?

A hernia is essentially a loop of intestine (variable in size) which protrudes through a defect in the abdominal wall. A spay is done by opening the abdomen (aka, belly) by cutting between muscle layers beneath the skin. If the layers do not meet when the incision is closed, intestine can protrude. Depending on the size of the hernia and if the tissue can be pushed back into the abdomen, surgery may or may not be required to correct the defect. I recommend keeping a close eye on Kurisu to make sure she does not lose her appetite, develop diarrhea or begin vomiting; as these may be a sign of intestinal constriction. I recommend keeping her diet constant, and avoiding giving any human food which may upset her stomach. I hope this helps and that all is well!

As long as Coco is at least two pounds in weight, she can be spayed now, and while the vet is doing her spay, the hernia can be fixed as well. You can call your vet tomorrow to make an appointment for her. Don't worry, you aren't hurting her when you pick her up and when she sleeps on you. I hope this helps!

The problem with hernias is that the internal organs can become twisted and cut off blood supply. That is very painful and will lead to death. This is something that needs to be fixed with surgery. Depending on the severity of the hernia, it may be an easy fix and not a risky surgery. Only the vet treating Flash can tell you if it's risky or not. I hope this helps!

Unfortunately fixing a chronic diaphragmatic hernia can also have some potential complications since scar tissue can form in the lungs and edema can develop following surgery. If the hernia is still present however anesthesia could be risky. I would recommend rechecking with your vet and having x-rays repeated. If the hernia is still present you can discuss surgery. I would think that a spay at the same time would be reasonable as long as anesthesia is going well since a hernia is fixed through an abdominal incision as well.

As she recovers from surgery, the best things that you can do to help her recover as seamlessly as possible include giving her the pain medication prescribed by her vet, keeping an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent licking of the incisions, and restricting her activity for the next 10-14 days. Keep Tashi indoors exclusively during her recovery and try to prevent her from running, jumping, or playing until her sutures are removed - typically 10-14 days after surgery. Keep a close eye on her incisions for any redness, discharge or swelling, and call your vet if you notice any of these changes. If Tashi still seems painful (lethargic, eating less, vocalizing), call your vet to discuss additional pain medications, but do not give her any human medications as none are safe for cats. I hope this helps and that Tashi is feeling better soon!

From what I can tell it seems to be healing well. If she is showing any signs of sickness or the incisions don't continue to improve, get her in to see your vet for a recheck. Put the cone back on if she starts paying too much attention to her incisions and overgrooming. It is likely to still be itchy for some time as it heals.

I am so sorry to hear of your concerns for Hazel! It certainly sounds like a hernia could be the cause of the swelling. These are usually corrected surgically and can be easily incorporated into her spay procedure. In the United States this is typically recommended to be done at around 6 months, but you should chat with your veterinarian and see what age they recommend scheduling Hazel for her procedure. The risk with a hernia is that intestines and other abdominal organs may become entrapped in the hernia and this can create an emergency situation. Monitor carefully for signs that the swelling is firm or painful, or if Hazel goes off her food and seems uncomfortable.