What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a disease mainly seen in middle aged feline patients over the age of 7 years.
This disease is caused by increased production of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland/residual tissue.
Thyroid glands are found on either side of the neck, which can sometimes be enlarged in some cases with hyperthyroidism – this is called ‘goitre’.
What are the clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Thyroid hormones affect various areas of the body and when over produced may cause the following symptoms:
Weight loss
Good to increased appetite (polyphagia)
Increased thirst (polydipsia)
Increased activity or irritability
Increased heart rate (tachycardia) – onset of cardiac murmurs
Poor coat
Vomiting and diarrhoea on occasion
Weakness – lethargy or loss of appetite in advanced cases
Panting with stress due to heat intolerance
How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed?
Patients will need a clinical exam performed by a vet so they can assess their health and clinical signs to assist with the diagnosis. We would then need to perform a blood test to get an accurate understanding of the patient's internal clinical health – with these results we can look at the animals' thyroid levels, which will help us finalise our diagnosis.
How is hyperthyroidism treated?
If your cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, your vet will help you to decide on the best treatment option for your pet.
Broadly, there are 4 ways to treat this condition:
Medication to slow the overactive thyroid gland(s)
Surgery to remove the gland(s)
Special diet to reduce circulating thyroid hormone levels
Radioactive iodine treatment – certain specialist veterinary hospitals offer radioactive iodine treatment to destroy thyroid glands without surgery.
If you are at all concerned about your cat and think they may be showing similar symptoms, as stated above, or would just like them to have a health check with a vet - please book an appointment online or contact the practice.
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