How does esophageal hiatal hernia develop?

Hiatal hernia commonly develops when the esophageal opening becomes relaxed or abdominal pressure changes, causing part of the stomach to shift into the chest cavity. If your pet shows signs of food regurgitation or difficulty swallowing, a veterinary examination is recommended.

Do mild cases always require surgery?

Not all cases require surgery. Mild or intermittent symptoms can initially be managed with diet and medication. If episodes recur or breathing is affected, your vet will assess whether surgical intervention is needed.

What follow-up should be monitored after surgery or treatment?

After treatment, regular check-ups and follow-up imaging are needed to confirm positioning. Monitor your pet's weight, vomiting frequency, and eating habits, and adjust diet and appointment frequency according to your vet's instructions.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Esophageal Hiatal Hernia in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Imaging & Care Guide [2025]

Hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach protrudes through the esophageal hiatus into the chest cavity, and can be congenital or acquired. Mild cases can be managed with medication and dietary changes, while severe cases may require surgical repair.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Unable to eat or drink for several hours continuously
•Noticeably rapid breathing with visible effort on inhalation
•Repeated heavy vomiting leading to weakness or dehydration

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Frequent choking or gagging reactions after eating
•Difficulty swallowing or frequent pauses while eating
•Continuous weight loss with noticeably reduced food intake

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Hiatal hernia most commonly presents with swallowing difficulties and digestive discomfort, and may be accompanied by weight loss and lethargy. Symptoms can appear intermittently or persist over time.

Loss of appetite or regurgitating food mid-meal
Repeated vomiting or food regurgitation after eating
Progressive weight loss and decreased energy or activity
Difficulty swallowing, drooling, or pausing during meals
Coughing or change in breathing sounds after eating

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent inability to eat or drink requires emergency evaluation
⚠️ Obvious rapid breathing or labored inhalation
⚠️ Continuous heavy vomiting leading to weakness or dehydration

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key observations and when to seek emergency care

Observing and recording key information at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and arrange appropriate diagnostics.

Record when symptoms first appeared and how they have progressed
Weigh your pet daily and track any changes
Use your phone to film short videos of feeding or vomiting episodes
Note the frequency, color, and content of vomit
Observe and record your pet's alertness, water intake, and bowel habits
Seek a clinic equipped with X-ray or endoscopy capabilities

03How does the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

After arriving at the clinic, imaging is the primary diagnostic tool, supplemented by endoscopy and blood work to confirm the position of the esophagus and stomach and to assess mucosal condition.

Physical examination

assessment of swallowing, oral cavity, and chest and abdominal palpation

Chest and abdominal X-rays

evaluating the positional relationship of the esophagus and stomach

CT scan

used when needed for detailed structural assessment and evaluation of complications

Endoscopy (gastroscopy)

direct visualization of esophageal mucosa and reflux

Blood and biochemistry panel

assessing hydration status and overall metabolic condition

Specialist referral to surgery or endoscopy when further consultation is warranted

04What treatment and care are needed after diagnosis? Medications, dietary adjustments, and home care guide

Treatment includes conservative management and surgical options, determined by severity and recurrence. Regular follow-up is needed whether after surgery or conservative therapy.

Mild cases can initially be managed with dietary adjustments and medication to control symptoms
Recurrent or severe cases may require surgical correction
Regular follow-up visits with imaging are needed after treatment to confirm positioning and check for recurrence
Feeding small, frequent meals and choosing easily digestible or soft food is recommended
Key home care includes tracking vomiting frequency and monitoring weight changes
Follow-up care at a specialist clinic equipped with endoscopy or surgical facilities is recommended

05What should you prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet quickly identify the cause

Note the time of first onset and the sequence in which symptoms developed

List any recent changes to diet or food types

Have videos of vomiting or feeding episodes ready for the vet to review

Bring observation records of bowel habits and water intake frequency

List the names of any current medications and supplements

Bring any previous imaging or test reports if available

Use a secure carrier and consider calling ahead to book an appointment

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.