How is a diaphragmatic hernia confirmed?

Vets usually use chest and abdominal X-rays as the main test. If needed, CT or ultrasound may be arranged to assess the diaphragmatic defect and organ displacement, along with blood tests to evaluate complications.

What treatment options are available for a diaphragmatic hernia?

Treatment depends on the severity and may include emergency stabilisation, surgical repair of the diaphragm, or conservative management with close monitoring. Your vet will decide based on imaging findings and your pet's overall condition.

How long does recovery take after surgery?

Hospital monitoring after surgery often lasts several days to a week. Full recovery varies between individuals and depends on complications, so it may take weeks to months. Follow your vet's instructions for rechecks and repeat imaging.

What changes should I watch for at home?

Watch the breathing rate, whether your pet is open-mouth breathing, whether the heartbeat seems faster, and any changes in appetite or activity. Take videos or record times so you can share them with your vet during the visit.

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

Diaphragmatic Hernia in Dogs and Cats: Breathing Changes, Imaging & Care [2025]

A diaphragmatic hernia occurs when abdominal organs move into the chest through a defect in the diaphragm. It may be caused by trauma or be congenital. It can affect breathing and often requires surgical repair.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, ACVIM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent open-mouth breathing or extreme difficulty breathing
•Noticeably blue or white lips or gums
•Sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, or unresponsiveness

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

•Significantly reduced activity with prolonged lethargy
•Persistent loss of appetite or repeated vomiting
•Noticeably faster breathing than usual with decreased exercise tolerance

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

A diaphragmatic hernia can cause abdominal organs to move into the chest, compressing the heart, lungs, and chest space. This may lead to breathing and heartbeat changes, as well as an overall drop in activity.

A faster heartbeat or changes in heart rhythm, often noticed as a clearly increased heart rate
Rapid breathing, open-mouth breathing, or reduced exercise tolerance
Sleepiness, low energy, or a marked drop in activity
Reduced appetite, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing
Pain, abnormal sounds, or an unusual mass may be detected when the chest or abdomen is examined

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing, or laboured breathing
⚠️ Collapse, confusion, or suddenly becoming unresponsive
⚠️ Gums or lips turning blue, pale, or noticeably discoloured

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

Observing your pet at home and recording key details can help your vet assess the situation quickly and plan the right tests.

Record when the signs started, how long they last, and how they change
Measure and note the breathing rate and heart rate while your pet is resting
Use your phone to take videos of abnormal breathing or restricted movement to show the vet
Track changes in appetite, water intake, urination, and bowel movements
If possible, arrange an early clinic assessment where chest and abdominal X-rays can be taken

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common tests

Your vet will start with a physical examination and use imaging and laboratory tests to confirm whether the diaphragm is intact and whether complications are present.

Physical examination

palpation and auscultation to assess the heart, lungs, and abdomen

Chest and abdominal X-rays

to check for organ displacement and changes in the position of gas or fluid

Computed tomography (CT)

to assess the size of the diaphragmatic defect and any complications

Blood tests and biochemistry

to assess organ function and check for infection or metabolic abnormalities

Urinalysis and, when needed, assessment of heart function or anaesthetic risk

04What treatment and care are needed after diagnosis? Medication, diet changes, and home care

After treatment, ongoing monitoring of vital signs and imaging changes is important. Follow-up visits and repeat imaging are arranged as needed to confirm recovery.

After surgery or during conservative treatment, hospital monitoring and support for pain control and breathing may be needed
After returning home, keep recording changes in breathing, heart rate, and activity for comparison at follow-up visits
Give medications and adjust the diet as directed, and avoid strenuous activity or jumping
Schedule regular X-rays or CT scans to monitor organ position and recovery
If signs worsen or new abnormalities appear, return to your vet promptly or seek assessment at a specialist hospital

05What should I prepare before seeing the vet? Key details that help identify the cause

Prepare a record of symptoms, including the approximate time they began and how they have changed

List recent changes in diet, drinking, urination, and bowel movements

Prepare a list of current medications or supplements

Record videos of abnormal breathing or movement, and bring any previous imaging reports if available

Use a secure carrier and call ahead to book a clinic that can perform X-rays

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.