Umbilical Hernia in Kittens – Mild Cases (small, about 1 cm)

A small umbilical hernia is very common in kittens — it appears as a soft little bulge or “button” near the belly button.

In mild cases (about 1 cm or smaller, only soft fat inside, easily pushed back in, and the kitten is happy and active), this is usually not a serious issue. Most of the time, it closes naturally as the kitten grows — typically by 3–6 months of age — because the abdominal muscles strengthen and close the small opening.

What veterinarians typically do in such cases:

• Monitor it every 1–2 months (palpate and check if it’s enlarging).

• No surgery is needed as long as there is no incarceration (intestine doesn’t get trapped).

• Often the hernia is repaired during spay/neuter surgery at 6–8 months — if it hasn’t closed by then.

Important to watch for (very rare in mild cases):

• Sudden increase in size

• Hardness, redness, or heat

• Any sign of pain, lethargy, vomiting, or discomfort

If any of these occur, contact your vet immediately — but in the vast majority of small hernias like ours, nothing like this happens. It’s often just a cosmetic issue that either resolves spontaneously or is addressed during routine spay/neuter surgery.

All our kittens are examined by our veterinarian before leaving, and we will let you know if your kitten has (or had) a tiny hernia — so you’re fully informed and prepared.