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My cat has a spay hernia. What care and diet does she need post-spay?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Balinese | Female | spayed | 10 months and 29 days old | 8 lbs

My vet said that my cat has a small hernia as a result of her spaying surgery, and to keep an eye out for swelling. He didn't give me any other directions and made no mention of needing surgery, but I've been really worried about her. Is there anything else I should be doing? Any dietary restrictions? She has been eating as normal (she's a picky eater) and going to the bathroom as usual, and sprints around the apartment as always.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 31st, 2018

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!

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