My cat has diaphragmatic hernia. Is surgery best for eating problems?

Question

Hello, my 8 year old cat was just recently diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia (unsure when she got it) which is making her eating efforts a bit difficult. She's lost some weight over the past month and will only eat a good meal if I am there to help her. My vet suggested she has surgery as soon as possible, but my mother has knowledge of cats living with the condition just fine and argued my vet may be after money. Since I know this surgery is extremely delicate... Can I get an advice on this? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 8 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

I agree with your veterinarian. It’s one thing if a pet has a condition that does not affect the quality of life. It is a completely different story when a pet has a condition that can be corrected and it makes their quality of life worse. You are already seeing the effects of this condition in her inability to eat normally and her weight loss. I gently remind you that veterinarians are not after money. We are entrusted to look out for the best interests of pets because they do not have a voice. Veterinarians have brutally honest conversations with clients every day. If your veterinarian had any misgivings about going to surgery, they would voice them. I do recommend to discuss potential complications however so that everyone is on the same page. Best of luck.

My cat has diaphragmatic hernia. Is surgery best for eating problems?

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