What is cryptorchidism in cats?
Cryptorchidism in male cats is a congenital condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum after birth. Normally, testicular descent occurs within the first few weeks of life and should be complete by 2 months of age. In some cats, one or both testicles may remain trapped in the following areas:
- Inside the abdomen, making detection more difficult
- In the groin, near the inguinal ring
This condition is more common in certain genetic lines and appears to have a hereditary component. For this reason, breeding a cryptorchid cat is strongly discouraged.
Unilateral vs. bilateral cryptorchidism
There are two types of cryptorchidism in cats:
- Unilateral cryptorchidism: only one testicle is retained (most common form)
- Bilateral cryptorchidism: both testicles are undescended, a rarer condition that may cause infertility
In both cases, surgical neutering is highly recommended to avoid complications.
What are the risks of cryptorchidism?
Cats with undescended testicles face a significantly higher risk of serious health issues, including:
- Testicular cancer, due to the internal body temperature promoting abnormal cell growth
- Testicular torsion, which can cause acute pain and tissue death
- Hormonal imbalances, leading to increased aggression or territorial behavior
Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are essential to avoid these complications.
How is cryptorchidism treated in cats?
The only effective treatment is surgical neutering, which involves removing both testicles—including those that haven’t descended properly. The surgery is more complex than standard neutering, especially if the retained testicle is located in the abdomen.
What happens during the surgery?
Cryptorchid surgery includes the following steps:
- General anesthesia, with continuous monitoring
- Location of the retained testicle, if accessible in the groin area
- Abdominal exploration, if the testicle is not palpable
- Removal of both testicles, including any in normal position
- Closure of incisions, followed by post-operative care
Recovery and post-op care
After surgery, your cat will need a recovery period that includes:
- Wearing an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking
- Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication, prescribed by the vet
- Restricted physical activity to support proper healing
- Monitoring the incision site for signs of infection or complications
Conclusion
Cryptorchidism is a relatively common condition in male cats that can lead to severe health risks if left untreated. Early neutering is essential to prevent cancer, torsion, and hormone-related behavior problems. If your male kitten does not have both testicles descended by the age of 2 months, consult your veterinarian promptly for a full evaluation and appropriate care.
