When it comes to neutering your dog, most procedures are fairly straightforward. But sometimes, one or both testicles don’t descend into the scrotum as they should. This condition is called cryptorchidism, and it means your pet may need a slightly different type of neuter surgery.
At Animal Works Veterinary Surgery, we believe understanding your pet’s health is an important part of making confident decisions about their care.
What Is Cryptorchidism?
Cryptorchidism (pronounced krip-TOR-kid-izm) occurs when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum.
In most male puppies, the testicles descend early in life. If one or both are still missing from the scrotum by around six months of age, the dog is generally considered cryptorchid.
An undescended testicle may be located in the groin or remain inside the abdomen.
While this condition is most commonly discussed in dogs, it can also occur in cats.
Unilateral vs. Bilateral Cryptorchidism: What’s the Difference?
Not all cryptorchid cases are the same!
Unilateral cryptorchidism occurs when only one testicle fails to descend. The other is located normally in the scrotum. This is the more common form.
Bilateral cryptorchidism occurs when neither testicle descends into the scrotum. Both may be retained in the abdomen, the groin, or a combination of the two.
While bilateral cryptorchidism is less common, both conditions require special consideration during neuter surgery. The veterinarian must locate and remove each retained testicle, which can make the procedure more involved than a routine neuter.
Dogs with unilateral cryptorchidism can still reproduce, while dogs with bilateral cryptorchidism are generally infertile. However, retained testicles can still produce testosterone, so these dogs may continue to display typical intact-male behaviors.
The good news? With proper surgical treatment, most pets recover well and go on to live happy, healthy lives! 💙
Why Is a Cryptorchid Neuter Important?
An undescended testicle isn’t just a cosmetic concern. Leaving it in place can create health risks later in life.
Two of the biggest concerns are:
- Increased risk of testicular cancer: Retained testicles have a higher risk of developing certain tumors.
- Testicular torsion: A retained testicle can twist on itself, cutting off its blood supply and causing severe pain. This is a medical emergency.
Cryptorchidism is also considered hereditary, which is another reason veterinarians recommend neutering affected pets rather than breeding them.
How Is a Cryptorchid Neuter Different?
During a routine neuter, both testicles are located in the scrotum and can typically be removed through a small incision.
With a cryptorchid neuter, the veterinarian must locate and remove the retained testicle, which may require an additional incision in the groin or abdomen.
Because of this, cryptorchid neuters can be more involved than traditional neuters, depending on where the testicle is located.
Both testicles are typically removed during the procedure, even if only one is undescended.
What About Recovery?
Recovery depends on the location of the retained testicle and the type of surgery performed.
Most pets go home with instructions for rest, incision care, and pain management. Your veterinarian may recommend restricting running, jumping, and rough play for approximately 10 to 14 days.
An Elizabethan collar or recovery cone may also be needed to prevent licking at the incision.
Following your veterinarian’s postoperative instructions helps your pet heal comfortably and safely.
We’re Here to Help
Finding out your pet needs a more involved neuter can feel a little overwhelming, but cryptorchidism is a condition veterinarians are familiar with, and surgical treatment is generally very successful.
At Animal Works , we’re committed to providing compassionate, affordable surgical care and helping pet owners understand their options.
If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with an undescended testicle, contact our team to learn more about cryptorchid neuter surgery and whether your pet may be a candidate.