HYPERTHYROIDISM IN CATS
Reviewed by Dr. Luciano de Gatica
Updated on 07/20/2024
Reading time 4 min.
Overview
Severity: Medium
Life stage: All
Hyperthyroidism, also known as thyrotoxicosis, is caused by an increase in thyroid hormone synthesis (known as T3 and T4) from an enlarged thyroid gland in a cat’s neck. The most common cause of thyroid gland enlargement is an adenoma, which is a non-cancerous growth. Thyroid adenocarcinomas, which are malignant tumors, produce certain uncommon episodes of hyperthyroidism. Although the origin of feline hyperthyroidism is unknown, shortages or excesses of specific substances in the diet, as well as prolonged exposure to thyroid-disrupting chemicals in food or the environment, may all play a role.
Thyroid hormones impact virtually all of the body’s organs, therefore thyroid illness frequently results in secondary issues.
Hyperthyroidism in cats: normal gland and enlarged thyroid gland
Clinical Symptoms
Hyperthyroidism causes a range of symptoms in cats, which may be mild at first but grow more severe as the condition develops. Weight loss, increased hunger, and increased thirst and urination are the most frequent clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Vomiting, diarrhea, and hyperactivity are all symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Affected cats’ coats may seem matted, oily, or untidy.
| Symptoms | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Weight loss | Very common |
| Increased hunger and thirst | Very common |
| Increased urination | Very common |
| Vomiting | Common |
| Diarrhea | Common |
| Hyperactivity | Common |
| Matted, oily, untidy coats | Less common |
Diagnosis Of Hyperthyroidism
If a veterinarian suspects a cat has a thyroid problem, he or she will perform a physical exam and palpate the cat’s neck to look for an enlarged thyroid gland (see Figure 2). It’s also possible to examine the cat’s heart rate and blood pressure. If thyroid illness is suspected, your veterinarian will most likely request a blood chemistry panel as well as a thyroid hormone level study. Although most cats with hyperthyroidism have increased T4 levels in their blood, a tiny minority of cats with hyperthyroidism have T4 levels that are within the usual range.
Additional testing may be performed if your cat does not have high T4 levels but your veterinarian suspects hyperthyroidism. Because hyperthyroidism might predispose a cat to various diseases, it’s crucial to assess their overall health, with an emphasis on the heart and kidneys. A blood chemistry panel and urinalysis will reveal information about your cat’s other organs and give your veterinarian a comprehensive picture of his or her health.
Treatment And Prognosis
Medication, radioactive iodine therapy, surgery, and nutritional therapy are the four therapeutic options for feline hyperthyroidism. Each treatment method has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats is determined by a variety of factors, including the patient’s general health, the owner’s capacity and desire to medication the cat on a regular basis, and financial concerns.
With adequate treatment, the prognosis for cats with hyperthyroidism is typically excellent. Complications affecting other organs may exacerbate this prognosis in some situations.
Every moment with your pet is precious. Ensure many more healthy years together by checking out our Wellness Exams today!
Share this, choose your platform!
Writen by
Dr. Luciano de Gatica
DVM
Luciano de Gatica graduated in 2005, as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, from Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP) in Argentina. He gained extensive experience in the field of…
Modern Vet, in partnership with Blue Sky Pet Relocation, proudly offers a comprehensive and personalized pet travel service tailored to the unique needs...
Modern Vet's Home Veterinary Service in Collaboration with VetLiveryAt Modern Vet, we continually strive for innovation, excellence, and utmost care...
We provide a complete evaluation of all organ functions during your pet’s visit to Modern Vet. We examine for the following conditions:
Dental...
A pet needs all the affection and attention you can provide. Health care is a significant component of their daily routine. Vaccinating them promptly is...
Like emergency hospitals for people, Modern Vet provides 24 hour emergency pet care, any day of the year, even on holidays. If you think to yourself that...
Your reliable partner in caring for your pet's health
At ModernVet, we understand the importance of your pet's health and wellbeing. Our clinic...
At ModernVet, we are proud to offer advanced ophthalmology services, dedicated to the eye health of your pets. Our state-of-the-art clinic is equipped...
Veterinary orthopaedics focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal problems in pets. Joints, soft tissue, bones, muscle, ligaments, and tendons are all...
DENTAL CARE FOR PETS
If you have a pet, it’s essential to know that they can have dental problems. Your dog or cat may need a checkup from their...
We at Modern Vet Hospital provide veterinary physiotherapy and rehabilitation services that are created to help your pet recover as quickly as possible...
Our pets are our life partners, and we want them to be happy and healthy. We know you don't have the time to spend on your pet. That's why we...
Ten thousand years ago when humans first began domesticating animals, they fell sick in detention and also due to the ailments of old age. In order to...
Feeding your pets high quality food gives them a chance at a longer and healthier life. Like humans, pets also require essential vitamins, minerals, and...
In Dubai, our unique Pet Taxi service is tailored exclusively for our furry friends, ensuring they travel directly from and to our clinics with ease and...
Grooming is a process that helps maintain your pet's health and beauty. It enhances the overall appearance of an animal by removing dead hair,...
Skin-related issues are not limited to human beings and can plague animals too. Much like their owners, pets should also have regular visits to the...
The Modern Vet Hospital is the leading pet charity in Dubai, working closely with many animal welfare organizations to provide price concessions for TNR....
Veterinary neurology is the branch of medicine that studies and treats the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nervous system in pets. Epilepsy, Meningitis,...
ModernVet Clinic is renowned as the only cardiology-focused veterinary hospital in your region. When searching for a 'veterinary cardiologist near...
At ModernVet, we're committed to enhancing the wellbeing of your canine companions through our specialized dog spay and neuter services....
At ModernVet, we specialize in providing top-notch cat spaying and neutering services, ensuring the best care for your feline companions. Recognizing the...
Vaccination is the process of immunization, which enhances an animal's immune system and helps it fight diseases. Vaccines are made from killed or...
You must know the pros and cons of vaccinating your cat if you're a pet owner. While some cats can be healthy without vaccination, others may not...
The modern Vet Clinic is a full-service animal hospital that provides comprehensive veterinary care for dogs in Dubai. From preventative treatment and...
At Modern Vet, we solely provide veterinarian care, boarding, and grooming for cats. Modern veterinary clinics are committed to delivering superior care...
