Skip to content

Aparato reproductor

Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle)

One or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum and remain retained in the abdomen or groin. The retained testicle has a high risk of becoming cancerous.

Moderate🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Absence of one or both testicles from the scrotum
  • • Otherwise, the animal is usually healthy
  • • No symptoms until, over the years, the retained testicle can cause problems (tumour, torsion)

Causes

Failure of the testicle to descend during development. It has a hereditary basis. The testicles should have descended by around 2-6 months of age.

Diagnosis

Physical examination. If the testicle cannot be palpated, an ultrasound is done to locate it.

Treatment

Neutering with removal of the retained testicle is recommended: because of the high risk of tumour and because it is a hereditary trait that should not be passed on.

Prevention

Do not breed from cryptorchid males (it is hereditary).

When should you see the vet?

See the vet if, by 6 months of age, your pet does not have both testicles in place. It is not an emergency, but it is worth planning the neutering of the retained testicle.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

Wallapets Sign in