Hyperthyroidism in cats can be very serious if left untreated. You must know the factors which can lead to this condition as well as the symptoms you need to look out for. Tests are used to diagnosis your furry friend and treatment is available. Only upon consultation with your veterinarian will you know if this the issue and how best you can treat it. Just don’t put it off as your cat can become very ill and possibly even die if the condition goes out of control.
Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This is most commonly seen in middle-age cats although onset can occur anywhere from between four and twenty two years. The ages of twelve and thirteen do seem to be critical though so if you notice any symptoms when your cat reaches this point in life, call a vet immediately. This will ensure your beloved pet will be with you for many years to come. If left untreated, hyperthyroidism in cats can lead to a heart condition known as hypertrophy cardiomyopathy. This condition leads to a thickening of the heart muscle. When this occurs, your cat may experience heart failure and die.
Hyperthyroidism in cats can easily be diagnosed in one of three ways. First, your doctor may inquire about symptoms and determine this is the cause. He or she may also check the thyroid gland. Normally this can not be felt so if he is able to locate it, most likely hyperthyroidism is the cause. Finally, blood tests may be ordered. These will be used to check for elevated T4 levels along with many other things. T4 levels are a sure sign of this disorder. If the doctor determines this is the cause of your cat’s symptoms, treatment options will be discussed.
Three types of treatments are currently used: anti-thyroid drugs, surgical removal of the thyroid gland or treatment with radioactive iodine. Anti-thyroid drugs are usually the least expensive, yet it can be difficult to get your animal to take the pill. Also, this treatment must continue for the life of your pet which many find to be cost-prohibitive. Surgery is another option, although many doctors prefer to avoid it. Anesthesia is required and a cat with hyperthyroidism offer suffers from other health problems. This increases the risk of surgery. If iodine treatment is a feasible option, this is the preferred method. It is the safest, least stressful and most specific treatment. Radioactive iodine has an excellent cure rate, resolves hyperthyroidism quickly and produces no side effects. Just be advised that your cat will have to stay in the hospital for a minimum of one to two weeks until the levels of radiation decrease. Yet, he or she will be healthy when they return home.
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