Overview

All male kittens are born with their testicles up in the abdomen. Normally by the time the kitten is 6 weeks old both of the testicles have descended into the scrotal sack. However in the case of cryptorchidism one, or both, of the testicles fail to come down into the scrotal sack and remain in the abdomen. This condition often does not come with any noticeable symptoms, and many owners are unaware that their cat has the condition.

Symptom of Cryptorchidism

The main symptom of cryptorchidism is failure of the testicle to descend into the scrotum. The pet owner may notice that one side of the scrotal sack is empty and loose, or the owner may notice that the entire scrotal sack looks droopy and empty. Another symptom of cryptorchidism is failure to reproduce; while the cat will still have the same urges to reproduce, the sperm are not able to develop properly if the testicles are in the abdomen. However some cryptorchid cats with only one descended testicle are able to impregnate females.

While the symptoms of cryptorchidism are mild, the condition does carry some dangerous risks. Retained testicles seem to develop testicular diseases at a much higher rate than normal testicles; these diseases can include infection and even cancer. Retained testicles are also at risk for becoming twisted; this condition is known as torsion, and it will result in tissue death and sometimes severe pain.

Cryptorchidism is a genetically inherited disease, and it is highly recommended that cats with this condition be neutered. Both testicles should be removed to prevent additional litters of kittens with the disorder, and to protect the affected cat from developing infections, torsion, and cancer.