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How do I know if my Pet is Cryptorchid? Why It Matters and What You Should Know Before Surgery
How do I know if my Pet is Cryptorchid? Why It Matters and What You Should Know Before Surgery
If your dog or cat has been diagnosed as a cryptorchid, you might be wondering what that means and what to expect. It’s more common than you’d think, and our team at Spay Neuter Vets is here to help you understand the condition and the next steps.
Author: Emi Kooyman | Founder
What Is Cryptorchidism?
What Is Cryptorchidism?
Cryptorchidism (pronounced krip-TOR-kidism) is a condition where a male dog or cat's testicle(s) have not descended into the scrotum like they normally should.
Puppies should have both testicles descended into the scrotum by 8 weeks of age
Kittens should have both testicles descended into the scrotum by 16 weeks of age
This can happen on:
One side only (unilateral cryptorchidism)
Both sides (bilateral cryptorchidism)
The retained testicle may be located in the groin area (inguinal canal) or deeper inside the abdomen.
How Does This Happen?
How Does This Happen?
Cryptorchidism is a genetic condition, which means that animals with this condition should not be used for breeding.
Surgical removal is the only treatment for cryptorchidism.
Why Neuter a Cryptorchid Pet?
Why Neuter a Cryptorchid Pet?
Even if one or both testicles aren’t visible, your pet still produces hormones—and can still show behaviors like:
Humping
Marking
Roaming or trying to breed
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Even if you have a dog that isn't Cryptorchid, by spaying and neutering you are helping your dog to have a longer, healthier life. Find out Why Neutering Your Dogs Might Just be The Best Decision You Make.
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More seriously, dogs with cryptorchidism:
Are prone to testicular torsion (twisting), causing a painful and life-threatening emergency
Have a much higher risk of testicular cancer
Thus, they should be neutered to prevent these problems in the future.
Cryptorchid neuters are more complex than routine neuters, because the retained testicle can be difficult to locate. Our surgical team has to carefully locate and remove it
What’s Involved in Cryptorchid Surgery?
What’s Involved in Cryptorchid Surgery?
Cryptorchid neuters are more complex than routine neuters, because the retained testicle can be difficult to locate. Our surgical team has to carefully locate and remove it, which may require one or more extra incisions or abdominal exploration.
This means:
Longer surgical time
More careful dissection to avoid nearby organs
A longer recovery time
At Spay Neuter Vets, we perform high-quality cryptorchid surgeries regularly and take extra care to ensure safety, precision, and a smooth recovery. However, in the event that the cryptorchid testicle(s) cannot be found, we may need to refer you to a clinic with more equipment, such as an ultrasound, to complete the exploration and removal.
How Much Does It Cost?
How Much Does It Cost?
If you are getting your pet neutered with Spay Neuter Vets, there is an additional charge of $50 per retained testicle on top of the base neuter cost.
For example:
One retained testicle = neuter price + $50
Two retained testicles = neuter price + $100
Our veterinarian will confirm the number of retained testicles during the pre-surgical exam on the day of surgery.
Prognosis
Prognosis
Cryptorchid animals that have had both testicles removed, and have no other defects, will generally live a normal lifespan for the breed.
What You Can Do
Schedule surgery as soon as your vet confirms cryptorchidism
Let us know in advance if your pet is cryptorchid so we can plan accordingly
Follow all pre- and post-op care instructions to help your pet heal well
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Learn more about the best practices in doing Aftercare for Spayed/Neutered Dogs and Cats - The Post-Surgery Recovery Guide.
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Still have questions?
Our team is happy to help. Feel free to call, text, or email us.
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