Cat Hyperthyroidism
Your cat’s thyroid glands produce hormones that regulate its digestive system, heart function, kidney function, and energy levels. When the thyroid produces too much hormone, it disrupts the metabolism of your cat. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) is often caused by a benign tumor on one or both of the glands and most commonly occurs in middle-aged or older cats. Cancerous tumors on your cat’s thyroid are rare.
Cat Hyperthyroidism Symptoms
The most obvious symptom of an overactive thyroid is rapid weight loss, despite a healthy appetite in your cat. Other symptoms include:
- Hyperactivity
- Hair loss
- Increased vocalization
- Vomiting
- Intolerance to heat
- Increased or ravenous appetite
Cat Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Hyperthyroidism is a serious problem that can result in blindness, heart failure, kidney failure, or even death. Your veterinarian will run tests to determine your cat’s thyroid levels. There are three treatment options for hyperthyroidism: medication, surgery, and iodine treatment. Medication is an inexpensive option that requires a daily pill, while surgery requires anesthesia. Most vets prefer iodine treatment, which involves a single injection of radioactive iodine into the vein to destroy the thyroid. This method is the most expensive, however, and requires hospitalization. The National Pet Pharmacy carries hyperthyroid medication Tapazole and its generic equivalent at a very reasonable cost.
About National Pet Pharmacy
National Pet Pharmacy is your pet health superstore. From prescription only pet medications to organic cat food, National Pet Pharmacy knows that pet health is more than just medicine; it is pet supplies, pet beds and pet food. From whiskers to tail, National Pet Pharmacy cares for your whole pet.
Related Articles
Search for More Information
Search over 10,000 Pet Health Articles