Umbilical Hernia
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What is an umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia is a protrusion (outward bulging) of the abdominal lining, abdominal fat or a portion of abdominal organ(s) through the area around the umbilicus (navel or belly button). The umbilicus in dogs is located on their underside just below the ribcage. If the umbilical ring does not close immediately after birth sometimes a little fatty tissue is trapped on the outside of the abdomen after the ring closes causing a bubble-like area where the umbilical cord was attached. |
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If the bubble cannot be pushed back up into the abdomen it is called a non-reducible hernia.
If the bubble can be pushed back up into the abdomen then it is called a reducible hernia. Most of the time a reducible hernia will turn into a non-reducible hernia as the puppy matures. |
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An umbilical hernia can vary in size from less than a quarter-inch (1-cm) to more than an inch (2.5-cm) in
diameter. Small (less than ¼ inch or 1-cm) hernias may close spontaneously (without treatment) by age
3 to 4 months. Umbilical hernias that do not close may require surgery, especially if a portion of an
intestinal organ protrudes through it. Umbilical hernias are usually painless. The exact incidence and
cause is unknown. Certain family lines have a higher incidence of umbilical hernias suggesting
at least a partial genetic predisposition to the condition.
diameter. Small (less than ¼ inch or 1-cm) hernias may close spontaneously (without treatment) by age
3 to 4 months. Umbilical hernias that do not close may require surgery, especially if a portion of an
intestinal organ protrudes through it. Umbilical hernias are usually painless. The exact incidence and
cause is unknown. Certain family lines have a higher incidence of umbilical hernias suggesting
at least a partial genetic predisposition to the condition.
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A companion pet owner need not be alarmed if their new Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy does
have an umbilical hernia. It can easily be corrected during the spay/neuter process or just left as is since majority of the time they pose no threat to the dog. In the unlikely event where an umbilical hernia becomes painful to the touch, red or swollen, take your dog to be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Keep in mind that umbilical hernias can appear on many different breeds of dogs. Most Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders will inform buyers of the condition prior to placement. |
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How is an umbilical hernia treated?
If the hernia has not closed by the time of spaying or neutering, surgical repair of the hernia is recommended.
The surgery can be performed at the time of spaying and neutering. The fibrous or scar tissues that
have formed around the hernia are dissected out or removed, and the defect is closed with sutures.
The surgery can be performed at the time of spaying and neutering. The fibrous or scar tissues that
have formed around the hernia are dissected out or removed, and the defect is closed with sutures.
An umilical hernia does not lower the value of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy since
it is so common in the breed and a very minor health issue easily correctable.
it is so common in the breed and a very minor health issue easily correctable.