Cryptorchid Neuter Surgery (Retained Testicle)

What It Is, Why It's Needed, What to Expect, and How We Support You

Why Might Your Pet Need This Surgery?

A cryptorchid neuter is a surgical procedure performed to remove one or both testicles that have not descended into the scrotum. In dogs and cats, testicles normally descend into the scrotum during development. If one or both fail to descend, they are retained in the abdomen or inguinal (groin) region. This condition is called cryptorchidism.

Retained testicles are at higher risk for:

  • Testicular cancer
  • Torsion (twisting)
  • Behavioral issues related to testosterone

Cryptorchid neuter surgery is both therapeutic and preventative. It prevents unwanted breeding, reduces the risk of testicular disease, and eliminates associated hormonal behaviors.

What Does the Surgery Involve?

This procedure requires locating and surgically removing the retained testicle(s), which may be located:

  • In the inguinal canal (just beneath the skin near the groin)
  • Within the abdomen, near the kidney or bladder

The surgical approach and complexity depend on the location of the retained testicle(s). A standard neuter incision is made for descended testicles; abdominal or inguinal incisions are used for retained ones.

This is a more complex procedure than a routine neuter and requires more anesthesia time and surgical expertise.

What Are the Risks?

  • Anesthetic complications
  • Bleeding or infection
  • Failure to locate the retained testicle (rare, but may require further diagnostics or referral)
  • Delayed healing from multiple incision sites

What Are the Benefits?

  • Prevention of future cancer or torsion
  • Elimination of testosterone-driven behaviors
  • Prevention of reproduction

What's Included in Our Surgical Care

  • Dog Cryptorchid Neuter: $430
  • Cat Cryptorchid Neuter: $320

Price includes:

  • Surgical removal of retained testicle(s)
  • General anesthesia and monitoring
  • Pain medication to go home
  • E-collar for healing
  • Discharge instructions and aftercare support

When Additional Care Is Needed

Most pets undergoing cryptorchid neuter surgery do not require overnight care and are discharged the same day. This is a minor procedure in most cases and is well tolerated by healthy patients.

If complications arise, or if your pet has other health concerns requiring more intensive care, we may recommend transfer to an emergency or specialty facility. This may occur if:

  • Your pet experiences unexpected anesthetic or recovery complications
  • They require 24-hour medications or monitoring
  • They are systemically ill or severely debilitated

Should we find signs of infection or another issue contributing to the condition, we may advise follow-up with your regular veterinarian for additional testing or treatment to ensure the best outcome.

Any costs associated with overnight or continued care will be the owner's responsibility.

Aftercare: What to Expect at Home

  • Oral pain medication for several days
  • Incision monitoring
  • Restricted activity for 7–10 days
  • An e-collar (cone) to prevent licking

Your pet may have one or two incisions depending on the location of the testicles. Mild bruising or swelling is normal.

Have Questions?

Please reach out to our team. We are happy to walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you care for your pet before and after surgery.