CRYPTORCHIDISM (UNDESCENDED TESTICLE) – COMPLICATION SIGNS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Cryptorchid dogs (one or both testicles not descended) face a dramatically higher risk of testicular cancer and torsion.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
None—this is a congenital defect.
MEDICAL
• Retained abdominal testicle
• Retained inguinal testicle
• Increased tumor risk
• Increased torsion risk
EMERGENCY
• Acute abdominal pain (torsion)
• Vomiting + collapse (torsion or rupture)
RED FLAGS
• Sudden abdominal pain
• Enlarged abdominal mass
• Restlessness
• If unsure, treat as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
None—cryptorchid pets should be neutered early.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Abdominal palpation
• Ultrasound
• Surgical planning
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Retained testicle
• Torsion
• Tumor
WHEN TO SCHEDULE A VISIT
Today: pain
ASAP: cryptorchid dogs should be neutered due to cancer risk
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Retained testicles have a very high tumor rate; early removal prevents life-threatening disease.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Recommended after surgery for hormone health optimization.