[?] Subscribe To
This Site

Hypothyroidism Feline

"Hypothyroidism feline is diagnosed with a blood test and examination of the thyroid gland. There are three types of treatment options available with two options offering a permanent cure."

Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland, a small gland in the neck. Its primary function is to regulate the metabolism. With hypothyroidism, the thyroid is under active, so the metabolism is decreased. Hypothyroidism is rare in cats as opposed to hyperthyroidism (note the er) which is far more common. In fact, hypothyroidism is most likely to occur in a cat who is being treated for hyperthyroidism. The treatment works too well and the thyroid goes from being overactive to being under active. Occasionally hyporthyroidism may be seen in older cats, but again, it is rare.

It is interesting to note that hypothyroidism was found to be genetic in a family of Abyssinian cats due to a problem with their ability to metabolize iodine. (A lack of iodine in the diet will cause hypothyroidism, but any commercial cat food has enough iodine in it for your cat�s diet).

Hypothyroidism Feline Symptoms

Hypothyroidism feline symptoms include:

* Lethargy- lack of interest in play, sleeping more than usual
* Weight gain- even though she may not seem to be eating more than normal (called polyphagia)
* Weight Loss * Haircoat changes such as Dull coat
* Hair loss
* Dry skin, dandruff
* Constipation
* Skin infections
* Cold intolerance - looks for warm places to lie down
* Behavioral changes - hyperactivity, aggressive behavior, may not use litter box, may develop compulsive behaviors like excessive grooming
* Frequent Urination
* Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea and aggressive behavior
* Weakness

Hypothyroidism Feline Diagnosis

If your cat has symptoms of hypothyroidism, your vet will do some blood tests and feel the thyroid area. In 90% of cases your veterinarian will feel a mass in the thyroid. Blood tests should be done when your cat is otherwise healthy, is not approaching or in a heat cycle, and is not on medication like steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), or anti-seizure drugs.

There are several blood tests your vet might do. The common tests look at two thyroid hormones, T3 (triiodothyonine) and T4 (levothyroxine). If your car has hypothyroidism, these hormones will be low.

Hypothyroidism Feline Treatment

There are three approaches to thyroid treatment including surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid (thyroidectomy), oral antithyroid medications, and radioactive iodine.

Surgery and radioactive iodine treatment options can possibly provide a permanent cure. Oral antithyroid drugs only control the hyperthyroidism. They need to be administered every day.

A common approach is to begin treatment with medication (methimazole) in order to reverse the effects of hypothyroidism and to see if their are any other side effects such problems with kidney function (renal). The reason to try medication first is that it is reversible. If side effects do appear, it usually happens within 4 to 8 weeks of treatment.

Another approach is to try is a dietary supplement designed to support thyroid health in cats. Thyro-Pet makes a supplement for this purpose that is worth researching and discussing with your veterinarian.

If your cat tolerates treatment well then more permanent approaches such as surgery or the iodine can be used.

Sources

Pet Place

The Mechanic�s Guide to Your Patient�s �Idle System:� Thyroid Disease Reviewed
Faunt, K. K.

Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Feline Hyperthyroidism
Richard W. Nelson, DVM, DACVIM
University of California, Davis

From Hypothyroidism Feline to Cat Health Guide Home

footer for hypothyroidism feline page