What is Feline Hyperthyroidism

Older Cats, usually over 10yrs old, have a fairly high incidence of Hypertrophic  Thyroid Disease.  Hypertrophic usually refers to a non-cancerous enlargement.  When the thyroid glands enlarge they also produce more thyroid hormone.  Thyroid hormone is like a catalyst for all other metabolic functions in the body.  So the heart rate increases, calorie burning increases,  general physical activity is usually increased, appetite is increased, kidney function and liver functions are accelerated, among a host of other changes.  The hallmark sign of this disease is weight loss.  These patients can eat everything you can give them and still loose weight.  They also tend to have liver and kidney issues due to the greatly accelerated function of these organs and the toxicity caused by muscle breakdown in the body.

 

 

How is it Treated

There are 4 ways to treat this disease today.  They are listed below with links to additional information.

 

Please click on the section below you wish to read.

Radiotherapy

Surgery

Oral medication

Prescription Diet y/d

 

We would be happy to discuss any or all of these options with you so you can decide which treatment is best for your bet.