Disorder - Orchitis

Organ Systems Involved
Urogenital

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Cryptorchidism; Monorchidism; Cystic rete testis

Presenting Signs

Orchitis is a relatively rare condition that affects the testicles of male cats. This condition can be present at birth (congenital) or acquired later in life. There is very limited evidence published about congenital orchitis. Acquired orchitis can be caused by trauma and/or inflammation of the testicular region. Bacterial infections can reach the testicles through the blood stream, the ductus deferens (a duct which carries sperm cells from the testicles to the ejaculatory duct) and wounds to the scrotum.

Affected animals present with decreased appetite, bodily discomfort and depression. On physical exam, cats with orchitis show signs of fever and swelling of the scrotum. Feline testicles are normally soft and small; in cats affected by orchitis the testicles are firm or may be up to twice the normal size.

Cats at Risk

Entire male cats are at risk of orchitis.

Treatment

The treatment for orchitis is structured around the removal of the source of inflammation as well as reducing the local inflammation. Surgical castration to remove both testicles is performed in animals with orchitis. A course of antibiotics is usually administered post surgery to treat any remaining infections.

PubMed References
Orchitis

Contributor
Ray Chan