Hyperthyroidism in geriatric cats

Hyperthyroidism is a frequent affliction in cats over 8 years of age

. It frequently goes unrecognized because the symptoms are subtle and are commonly associated with old age.

Hyperthyroidism is usually caused by a benign tumor on the thyroid gland. This tumor causes the production of high levels of thyroid hormone. The signs that can be associated with hyperthyroidism in cats should alert cat owners to seek veterinary medical care for their cat. These symptoms include an increase in thirst, more frequent urination, sporadic vomiting, persistent diarrhea, weight loss despite a voraceous appetite, grouchiness or downright aggression, and uncharacteristic vocalization or howling and yowling.

Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, and acute blindness in cats. Veterinarians can diagnose this condition with a physical examination and by performing blood tests, a urinalysis, blood pressure evaluation and x-rays of a cat. If a cat is particularly fractious, a sedative may be necessary in order to perform these tests.

If a cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, there are several options to control and even cure this disease. There is a medication called methimazole that can block the excess hormone that is being produced by the cat's thyroid tumor. Although it comes in pill form, this medication can be compounded into a cat friendly liquid such as a tuna flavored suspension. The most common and easiest form of this medication is a transdermal gel that is applied, using gloves, to the skin of the cat's ear. Frequent blood tests and a urinalysis is required to assess the cat's thyroid hormone level and to monitor the cat for adverse effects related to this medication. Hyperthyroidism can mask certain conditions such as chronic kidney failure and resolution of the thyroid condition can reveal a previously undiagnosed kidney problem.

Hyperthyroidism can be cured with a thyroidectomy. A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the affected thyroid gland. A less invasive procedure to cure hyperthyroidism utilizes radioactive iodine to selectively destroy the thyroid tumor without requiring general anesthesia.

Hyperthyroidism is a common debilitating disease in geriatric cats, but once diagnosed, it can be easily controlled or even cured.

Hyperthyroidism in geriatric cats

By: Pamela Dragos

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