Hyperthyroidism is a frequent illness in cats caused by the thyroid glands producing excessive thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism is most often seen in cats between the ages of 13 and 14.
Cats have two thyroid glands in their necks that assist in metabolic regulation. At times, these glands may enlarge and generate excessive thyroid hormone. This may be troublesome since thyroid hormone has an effect on the cat’s other organs, most notably the heart.
The majority of the time, an enlarged thyroid gland is caused by a benign tumour, but hyperthyroidism may sometimes be a sign of malignancy. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your cat has an enlarged gland in their neck.
In the majority of instances, hyperthyroidism in cats may be effectively treated, allowing your cat to enjoy a long, healthy life.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Cat Hyperthyroidism?
While hyperthyroidism symptoms in cats may initially be mild, they may grow more severe with time. Symptoms may include the following:
- Despite an increased, often insatiable hunger, weight loss
- Enhanced thirst
- Enhanced urination (sometimes in inappropriate places like outside of the litter box)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness/hyperactivity
- Conduct that is aggressive
- Breathing difficulty
- Weakness
- Depression
- Hair that is greasier than usual or matted
Which Breeds Are Especially Predisposed to Hyperthyroidism?
Any cat breed, particularly as they age, may get hyperthyroidism. There is no recognised breed that is predisposed to hyperthyroidism, but certain breeds, such as Siamese, Persian, and Himalayan cats, seem to have a lower prevalence of the illness.
What Is the Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism in Cats?
Your veterinarian will begin by doing a physical examination on your cat and looking for an enlarged thyroid gland in the neck.
If your veterinarian detects hyperthyroidism in your cat, he or she will likely do a few more tests, including the following:
Thyroid hormone levels are determined using a blood chemical panel (most cats will have an elevated amount of thyroid hormone in their bloodstream)
- Test of the urine
- The heart’s ultrasound
In certain cases, hyperthyroidism may predispose a cat to acquire additional medical problems. High blood pressure and heart disease, for example, are two consequences of hyperthyroidism in cats. Your veterinarian will examine your cat for these problems and do a general health examination.
How Are Cats Treated for Hyperthyroidism?
Cats diagnosed with hyperthyroidism have a number of therapy choices. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining the most appropriate course of action for you and your cat. However, the best form of treatment would have to be prevention by the use of supplements, and you can get them along with cat worming tablets online. Among the available therapies are the following:
- Iodine treatment with radioactive iodine
- Iodine is injected straight into your cat’s bloodstream during this therapy. The iodine is absorbed by the cat’s thyroid, and the radiation kills any aberrant thyroid tissue without causing damage to other bodily tissues. Within a few weeks of getting therapy, the majority of cats return to normal hormone levels.
Surgery
This procedure entails surgically removing the thyroid gland from the cat. It has a high success rate and may be used to avoid long-term medication. However, it does need anaesthesia, which may pose a danger to elderly cats.
Medicinal diet
Certain medical studies suggest limiting iodine in your cat’s food to aid in the treatment and prevention of hyperthyroidism. This therapeutic approach is currently under investigation, and it is not yet a sure thing. It’s critical to consult with your veterinarian before reducing iodine in your cat’s diet. You can also checkout.
