Is Umbilical Hernia Common in Canadian-Bred Horses?

An umbilical hernia occurs in approximately .5 to 2 percent of all foals born each year. While this defect may be more common in some bloodlines, it occurs in all breeds and types of horses, including Canadian-breds.

  1. Definition

    • An umbilical hernia occurs when tissue protrudes through an opening in the abdominal wall near the location of the umbilical cord. Usually noticed at birth or within a few weeks after, it will appear as a round swelling in the abdomen. Umbilical hernias can occur in both sexes.

    Causes

    • Umbilical hernias occur when the abdominal wall fails to form around the umbilical cord. An abscess on the umbilical cord or manually breaking the cord during the birth process may also lead to a hernia.

    Treatment

    • Most umbilical hernias will heal within the first few months of life. Those that are still present at six months will often be treated by clamping them if they are small, or by surgery if they are large. After the hernia is resolved, the horse will lead a normal life.