FELINE HYPERTHYROIDISM

What is Feline Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in older cats, most often caused by a benign (non-cancerous) tumour in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces a hormone which directly affects the cats metabolic rate, that is, controls the speed of body functions. Cats with an 'overactive thyroid' will themselves become overactive, eat and drink more than usual, yet lose weight dramatically. Because it is only seen in older cats and often progresses slowly, owners can put symptoms down to 'just old age'. However, if the cat is left untreated its increased heart rate will eventually result in heart failure.

Clinical Signs of The Disease:

Weight loss
Ravenous appetite
Hyperactivity and restlessness
Increased heart rate, with a variety of rhythm irregularities and murmurs
Occasional vomiting
Matted, greasy and unkept coat
Change in vocalisation

(Not all of these are seen in all cats.) 

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is made by a simple blood test which measures serum thyroid levels (T4).

Treatment:

Once diagnosed treatment can be very successful. There are three methods:

Medical - a daily tablet.
Surgical - remove the thyroid gland.
Radiation treatment - injection of radioactive iodine which destroys thyroid tissue.

All three treatments can be very successful and your vet will advise which would be best for your cat.