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Testicular Swelling in Cats
Written By hannah hollinger
Published: 11/04/2016Updated: 01/20/2022
Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS
What is Testicular Swelling?
This painful inflammation can make urination and defecation very difficult for the cat. Testicular swelling may occur as a one-time response due to trauma or an infection of the testicles, or it may become a chronic issue. This is more common in older males as their hormones begin to shift and testosterone slowly decreases. Blockages or infections caused by waste buildup in the seminal ducts can lead to prostatitis. Veterinary attention is necessary, as infection can spread throughout the body. It is also humane to reduce the extreme pain that can accompany testicular swelling.
When a cat’s immune system reacts to an injury or ailment affecting the scrotal area this leads to fluid retention in the testicles and a visible swelling. This often results in one or both testicles swelling to an abnormally large size, and can be very painful for the cat.
Testicular Swelling Average Cost
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Average Cost
$650
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Symptoms of Testicular Swelling in Cats
Symptoms are often outwardly visible and may be accompanied by further internal issues. The more symptoms that are present, the more pain that the cat is possibly experiencing. Rectifying the issue in a prompt manner is required. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Visibly larger testicles
- Pain in the genital area
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive scrotal licking
- Open wound on or around the testicles
- Difficulty moving
- Infertility
Causes of Testicular Swelling in Cats
While testicular swelling can be temporary, many conditions that cause it will not dissipate on their own. Causes are generally local to the scrotal area. Known causes include:
- Abscess from a bite or other traumatic wound
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection (such as feline leukemia virus or feline immunodeficiency virus)
- Cysts
- Cancer
- Hormonal issues (such as estrogen exposure)
- Allergic reaction (often from fleas)
Diagnosis of Testicular Swelling in Cats
At your veterinary appointment, bring your cat’s full medical history as the veterinarian will need it to assess possible problems in the cat. A full physical examination will be performed including an extensive rectal exam. The vet will have to differentiate between possible conditions by matching symptoms present in the cat to possible health issues. The goal is to identify the exact cause of the swelling to prepare a proper treatment plan.
A microscopic urine culture can help identify bacteria if infection is present. Blood work including a complete blood count and a biochemical profile may be useful in identifying possible cases of cancer. X-rays and ultrasounds can confirm and locate tumors or growths in the testicular area. A biopsy of swollen tissue may be collected for a histopathological examination. Antibody testing can be used to discover the presence of infectious organisms.
Treatment of Testicular Swelling in Cats
Appropriate treatment will depend on the cause of swelling. Certain issues are more dangerous to the cat than others. Early detection of testicular swelling can make treatment more effective.
Antibiotics
If the cause of the swelling is an open wound, antibiotics can rid the area of bacterial infection. If a general bacterial infection is afflicting the entire scrotum, antibiotics are not always effective, especially if the issue has become chronic. If surgery is required, antibiotics are often prescribed after to prevent infection from developing in the wound site. Prescriptions generally range from on to four weeks’ duration.
Full or Partial Neuter
With many cases of testicular swelling, the only permanent solution is castration. If the testes are diseased, the surgery can become more complicated. Larger incisions may be needed and in some cases the testicles may have fused to skin tissue. General anesthesia is required to perform the surgery.
Surgical Removal
If a tumor is deemed to be the cause of testicular swelling, surgical removal of the tumor may allow the testicles to remain. This depends on the location, number, and malignancy of tumors present.
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Recovery of Testicular Swelling in Cats
While your cat is suffering from testicular swelling, ensure it is urinating and defecating regularly. Provide fresh water to the cat to encourage frequent drinking. Feed your cat a high quality, species-appropriate diet free of fillers and chemicals. Your vet may recommend supplements that boost the strength of the immune system.. Limit play and exercise, as this can exacerbate the swelling.
If the cat has undergone surgery, at home-care will be required. Ensure the cat does not lick or bite its incision site. An Elizabethan collar may be necessary to achieve this. Monitor the incision for any signs of infection.
The prognosis for cats who have testicular swelling is overall very good, provided they survive castration and do not have a virus such as feline leukemia virus or feline immunodeficiency virus. These viruses are permanent and untreatable. Keeping your cat indoors may be the best way to prevent wounds from cat fights or exposure to viral infections.
Testicular Swelling Average Cost
From 565 quotes ranging from $200 - $1,000
Average Cost
$650
Top
Testicular Swelling Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Street cat adopted
2years
5 found this helpful
5 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Pain In Testicular Region And Back Legs
My cat fought with another cat and got hurt in his testicle
Sept. 25, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
5 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
I hope that your pet is okay. If they are still having any problems, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 20, 2020
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Tuxedo
2-3
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Seems To Hide Even When I Shake His Bag Of Treats I Hav 2 Other Cats So I’M Not Sre If It’S Him But I Have Cleaned Up Vomit 3 Times In 2 Days. Testicals Seem Big And Hard And Wet
I found this cat 2 weeks ago outside of my work after feeding him for a couple days he became very lovable and would follow me when I left the parking lot. After a week or so I grabbed him and put him in the car. He has been here for 2 weeks. I took him to the wellness clinic provided by poi dogs and papokie at pet smart they said he seems healthy and he was roughly 2or 3 I had him micro chipped and had revolution treatment applied 4 days later I notice he is not acting the way he was went I brought him home. I haven’t been around him long enough yo know his demeanor but something is wrong
July 24, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Stray cats can be affected commonly by viral diseases or infections. If he does not seem to be himself and is not as responsive as he was when you first got him, it may be worth a second check up for him with a veterinarian. They will be able to take his temperature, assess his General Health, and see what might be going on. That was nice of you to take him in, and I hope everything goes well for him!
July 24, 2020
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Orange tabby
Cheddar
1 Year
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Redness
Swelling
Red Bumps
Neutered
My cat was just spayed and neutered about a week ago. He seemed fine but today he has a large lump between where his testicles were. The lump has a vertical line, which is where, I’m asuming, he was cut during the procedure. He doesn’t seem to be bleeding but he does seem to be a little in pain since he shakes his tail a little bit when moving sometimes. Other than that, he’s behaving fine.
Aug. 27, 2018
2 Recommendations
Some pain and swelling may occur after castration, incision wounds are usually so small that stitches or glue are not required in routine castrations of male cats; if there is a lot of swelling or Cheddar is exhibiting a lot of pain you should return to your Veterinarian to be on the safe side. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 27, 2018
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tabby
Cuddles
1 Year
3 found this helpful
3 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Licking At Genitals
My cat keeps licking his rectum, has dihorrea,his fur is not shining,his balls seems hard and large,his his bottom eyelids are showing.He seems to be eating and drinking ok, but he doesn't seem to want to sit on his bottom.
I've treated him for worms, but not fleas
Aug. 17, 2018
3 Recommendations
There are various issues which may be causing testicular swelling, but it may be due to irritation of the scrotum from diarrhoea or excessive licking the area area because of the diarrhoea; you should ensure that Cuddles is treated for worms, fleas etc… and is being fed an appropriate diet for age and breed, also place a cone on Cuddles to prevent any further licking and bathe the area around the anus and scrotum to remove any irritants. A visit to your Veterinarian would be useful to determine a cause for the diarrhoea. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 17, 2018
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Tuxedo
Brolek
13 Months
6 found this helpful
6 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Hair Loss
Scab
Testicular Licking
My cat lately has been licking/biting his testicles I just noticed he has hair loss in that area and small scabs, this has been going on for a couple of weeks. I don't notice any swelling, he is also big on grooming himself constantly. His eating is good, drinking lots of water. Haven't noticed any blood in urine. I haven't tried any creams or ointments.
July 8, 2018
6 Recommendations
You should try to place a cone on Brolek and bathe the scrotum twice per day with a dilute antiseptic, you may also place a dab of Neosporin on the scrotum as well to be on the safe side; see how he goes over the next week but if there is no improvement visit your Veterinarian. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
July 8, 2018
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Unknown
Oreo
1 Year
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Loss Of Appetite
Hi I have an outside cat named Oreo but recently I've noticed that his testicals are swelled up and he cant move his tail. I really want him to feel better but I can't take him to a vet due to my young age. Is there anything I could do myself to help him
Puspin
Clowny
1 Year
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Fever And Swelling Of Testicles
My cat was neutered 2 weeks ago. Last week he had a fever and his balls are enlarged. I checked his balls again and he has a wound below his belly. What should I do first before taking my cat to the vet?
Cat
bones
2 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swelling
I adopted a stray cat. His name is Bones. He got neutered exactly a week ago. His balls are swollen...how long should it take for them to go down? should I take him in to the vet?
Testicular Swelling Average Cost
From 565 quotes ranging from $200 - $1,000
Average Cost
$650
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
