Inability to Protrude or Retract Penis in Cats

By PetMD Editorial on Dec. 18, 2008

Paraphimosis and Phimosis in Cats

Paraphimosis is a condition that causes the cat to be unable to retract its penis back into the sheath. Phimosis, on the other hand, refers to the cat's inability to protrude its penis from its outer orifice.

Both of these medical conditions can occur in male dogs and cats at any age. If you would like to learn more about how paraphimosis and phimosis affect dogs please visit this page in the PetMD pet health library.

Symptoms and Types

The cat's inability to protrude its penis may go unnoticed until it tries to copulate with a female. Also, if the cat is having trouble urinating, it may be a sign of this medical disorder. If the animal experiences problems retracting its penis into the sheath, you may notice it licking the exterior of its penis. If it occurs over a prolonged period, there could also be fluid accumulation in the tissues (edema) or swelling in the area.

Causes

The inability to retract the penis (paraphimosis) often occurs when the cat has a small opening (orifice), and in many cases is a birth defect. If the cat is unable to protrude the penis (phimosis), it may have swelling, or hairs that are obstructing the penis. In some cases, injury or a neurological disease can cause this medical condition.

Diagnosis

With paraphimosis, the veterinarian will be able to view the exposed penis and/or gland areas upon examination. The goal is to identify the underlying medical cause for the condition for treatment options.

Treatment

In some instances surgery can help enlarge the opening of the sheath (orifice), making it possible for the penis to protrude. Also, veterinarians can remove tissue surrounding the penile area to allow for a normal, functioning penis.

Immediate treatment is necessary for cat that are unable to retract its penis into the sheath, as damage to the tissues can occur. Techniques to repair or aid in this medical condition can include removing any foreign objects that are present, lubricating the penile area for retraction, surgical enhancement of the orifice area if it is too small, and catheters if the cat is unable to urinate. At times, ointments and topical medications are prescribed to correct phimosis.

Living and Management

With treatment, both conditions have a positive prognosis. However, cats that are unable to retract their penis into the shaft need immediate medical attention, as there are several complications that can occur if the penis is left outside of the body for extended periods of time.