Hyperthyroidism is a common disease affecting middle-aged and senior cats. It occurs when the thyroid glands produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, leading to various health issues.
What Causes Hyperthyroidism in Cats?
Most cases of hyperthyroidism are caused by a benign tumor of the thyroid gland, resulting in excessive thyroid hormone production. In rare cases, the tumor can be malignant and spread within the body.
What Are The Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism in Cats?
The thyroid hormones regulate various bodily processes, including metabolism, blood pressure, and heart rate. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism in cats include:
- Weight loss despite good appetite
- Increased appetite and food intake
- Increased drinking and urination
- Hyperactivity
- Panting
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Coat changes
- Temperament change. Cats often present as being more grumpy; less tolerant of other cats, attacking humans unexpectedly.
Hyperthyroidism Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosing hyperthyroidism involves a physical examination and blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. It’s important to also monitor kidney function in these cats, as once the blood pressure reduces to normal on medication, it sometimes exposure underlying kidney disease.
Treatment options include:
- Daily medication to inactivate excessive thyroid hormone. This is the most common option and there are various types of medication option, including a topical gel that means you don’t have to tablet your cat.
- Surgery to remove one or both thyroid glands
- Radioactive iodine therapy to target abnormal thyroid tissue
- Low iodine diet to manage iodine levels, only suitable in some cases
What Is The Life Expectancy of Cats with Hyperthyroidism?
With proper management and lifelong monitoring, cats with hyperthyroidism can live happily for many years. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent weight loss and damage to vital organs.
Regular check-ups and annual blood tests can help detect hyperthyroidism and other common conditions in senior cats. If you suspect your cat may have hyperthyroidism, give us a bell to determine the best course of action.