Testicular Tumors in Cats
Key takeaways
Testicular tumors are masses of uncontrolled and disordered cells growing within the testicles, and are very rare in cats.
- There are three main types of tumors that can develop: seminomas, Leydig cell tumors, and Sertoli cell tumors
- The causes of tumors are not yet well understood, although environmental and genetic factors appear to play a role
- The characteristic symptom is the development of a mass on the testicle, in some cases accompanied with weight loss, lack of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or feminization
- Diagnosis is based on physical examination and biopsy
- Treatment involves surgical removal of the tumor
- In cases where the tumor is malignant and has spread to other parts of the body, additional treatments include chemotherapy and radiation
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A closer look: Testicular Tumors in Cats
Testicular tumors are a very rare condition in cats, and only affects male, unneutered cats. Older cats and cats with undescended testicles (cryptorchidism) are particularly susceptible.
If a testicular tumor is suspected, prompt veterinary attention is required, as some tumors may be malignant and spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
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Risk factors
Some testicular tumors produce large amounts of estrogen, which can cause feminization. Symptoms of feminization include:
- Swelling of the mammary glands and nipples
- Hair loss
- Darkening of the skin
- Changes to the shape of the prepuce
- Reduced libido
- Attractiveness to other male cats
- Squatting to urinate
In cases where the tumor is malignant and spreads to other parts of the body, the condition is severe and potentially life-threatening. Symptoms vary depending on which organs are affected by metastases.
Possible causes
The causes of testicular tumors are not yet completely understood, although environmental and genetic factors appear to be involved. Cryptorchid testicles that are retained within the abdomen are particularly at risk of developing testicular tumors.
There are three types of testicular tumor that occur in cats: Sertoli cell tumors, Leydig cell tumors, and seminomas.
- Sertoli cell tumors develop from the cells that support sperm development.
- Seminomas develop from the sperm-producing cells within the testis.
- Leydig cell tumors develop from the testosterone-producing cells within the testis.
Main symptoms
The main symptom of testicular tumors is the presence of a mass on the testicle. This is often discovered during a routine check up or while the cat is being neutered.
Testing and diagnosis
Diagnostic tools include:
- Physical examination
- Biopsy or fine needle aspiration of the mass
- Diagnostic imaging, such ultrasound
- Bloodwork
- Urinalysis
Once removed, the tumor is sent to a laboratory to determine if it is benign or malignant. If a malignant tumor is diagnosed, additional diagnostic tests may be required to identify if the tumor has spread, and which organs are affected.
Steps to Recovery
Treatment is the surgical removal of the tumor. This is usually done by surgical removal of the testicles (neutering). Additional treatment of malignant tumors may involve chemotherapy or radiation.
In cases where a testicular tumor is detected early and removed before it has spread to other parts of the body, the prognosis is good. In cases where the tumor is malignant and where it has spread, the prognosis is guarded and depends on which organs are involved and how many metastases occur.
Prevention
Testicular tumors are prevented by the removal of the testicles (neutering).
Is Testicular Tumors in Cats common?
Testicular tumors are very rare in cats.
Typical Treatment
Surgical removal Chemotherapy or radiation if necessary.
