How Common Are Umbilical Hernias in Horses?

Umbilical hernia in a foal is troubling to see, because the young horse has just started its life. Umbilical hernias are easy to diagnose and treat. Give the herniated foal ongoing care, and exercise proper vigilance.

  1. What is an Umbilical Hernia?

    • Umbilical hernias sometimes develop in the abdomen around a newly born foal's umbilical cord; this is because it is no longer needed to sustain the horse. A hernia forms when the abdominal wall leaves an open hole in the side of the foal. Pieces of organs, intestines or fat escape through the hole as a result of the abdominal defect.

    Frequency of Umbilical Hernia

    • A congenital defect in the abdominal wall is the main cause of equine umbilical hernia. The defect shows when the abdomen around the umbilical tissue fails to close after birth. The general consensus among the majority of equine vets is that approximately 0.5 to 2 percent of foals develop congenital umbilical hernias.

    Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia

    • Foals develop different kinds of hernias, but suspect an umbilical hernia when the horse develops a swelling in its abdominal area that feels like a ring under its skin. The round swelling usually appears during the first two months of the foal's life.