You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

Orchitis is an uncommon disorder of males - which is most often seen in dogs

Orchitis is extremely painful and can be due to infection or trauma, particularly following a dog fight. Clinical signs include whimpering, depression,  reluctance to move, standing with a wide stance of the hindlegs, licking at the genitalia, pain when touched. The scrotum is swollen and sometimes discoloured - often dark red or purple, like bruising. Orchitis can also be caused by Brucella canis infection where this occurs,  and may be associated with autoimmune thyroiditis.

Diagnosis is based upon the clinical signs and the presence of large numbers of  inflammatory cells in semen samples. Orchitis must be differentiated from cancer of the testicle.

A variety of treatments have been recommended including :

• Cold compresses applied locally - to reduce inflammation and swelling
• Broad spectrum antibiotics (eg tetracyclines)
• Corticosteroids - to reduce inflammation
• Diuretics - to reduce swelling
• Elizabethan collars - to prevent self-trauma
• Castration - if there is deep infection

Sometimes testicular degeneration occurs following healing. 

Canine Brucellosis can be difficult to treat successfully.

Updated October 2013