Ask the Vet

Dr. Ken McMillan, Contributing Columnist

READER: We have seen several cryptorchid calves over the last few years. I can't remember ever having them in the past. Is this genetic? What can we do to reduce this problem?

DR. McMILLAN: Cryptorchidism is defined as the failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum. The testicle(s) is located somewhere along the normal fetal development path of descent from around the kidney to the inguinal canal.

As I have stated before, I think to some degree almost everything is heritable. The only peer-reviewed study I could find dates back to 1992. The authors looked at affected bulls admitted to 23 North American veterinary schools. They found a very low incidence of 1.7 cases per 1,000 bulls admitted to the schools. In any case, the incidence seems to be very low.

Since you have seen an uptick in cryptorchids, I would suspect you used a bull or bulls with a genetic predilection to the condition, but there is little data to support my assumption.

I would look back to see if there are common sires or cow families involved. This could be a factor in culling decisions for cows, but it would not be at the top of my list. Now, if a cow produced more than one cryptorchid, she might move up my cull list, and I might not want to retain her heifer calves.

And as I stated previously and want to repeat, please do not use a cryptorchid bull for breeding because of the genetic potential, but more so that even if he is fertile, his serving capacity could be greatly reduced. Also, you could end up with fewer calves and calves born later in your calving season.

READER: Following up on the question about cryptorchids, should they be sold "as is" or castrated?

DR. McMILLAN: The 1992 study I previously referenced found that 66% of retained testicles are located in the inguinal canal. Your veterinarian can usually remove these with mild sedation and local anesthesia.

Testicles retained in the abdomen are another story. These testicles, if left in place, can produce male hormones that can lead to masculine behavior and libido, which can present management issues at all stages of production and potentially decrease the quality of meat.

I will have to defer to other veterinarians who have removed abdominal testicles in cattle, but my experience in cats and dogs tells me that this could be an expensive and, in some cases, futile attempt. We have failed to locate testicles on several occasions even after a lengthy search with more than one veterinarian involved.

I will say I would not want to retain ownership with any uncorrected cryptorchid. Let the big boys roll those dice.

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-- Please contact your veterinarian with questions pertaining to the health of your herd. Every operation is unique, and the information in this column does not pertain to all situations. This is not intended as medical advice but is purely for informational purposes.

-- These are only my thoughts and general guidelines. Please get with your veterinarian and together develop the best program for your herd.

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