Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, in cats is a common disorder in older cats. Hyperthyroidism is rarely seen in cats younger than 7 years old.
A cat has two thyroid glands situated just below the larynx on both sides of the trachea. The glands produce the thyroid hormone that is responsible for regulating many body processes. This includes the cat’s metabolic rate. Hyperthyroidism is when too much of the thyroid hormone is produced. The clinical signs can be quite dramatic and a cat can become seriously ill. An owner needs to understand how to identify if their cat is affected by observing some key symptoms.
The Signs
Watch this video on the signs on hyperthyroidism in cats:
The list below show some of the signs that your cat may display if they are affected by hyperthyroidism:
- Weight loss
- A good or increased appetite.
- Increased thirst
- Increased activity, restlessness or irritability
- A poor and unkempt coat
If your cat is displaying any of these symptoms owners should seek treatment. Not treating hyperthyroidism will have important consequences for your cat’s heart. This will include both physical changes to the heart but also the development of high blood pressure. High blood pressure will cause damage to other organs such as the eyes, kidneys, heart and brain.
Detection of the condition is straight forward. A small blood sample will be taken so that the levels of the thyroid hormone can be measured.
Thankfully once the condition has been detected it can be treated very successfully with most cats making a complete recovery.
For more information on the condition you can download our leaflet on hyperthyroidism or visit the ICC website.
If you have any questions about hyperthyroidism or have any concerns about your cat’s health in general, call the team on 01772 639800 OR 01253 766352 or why not open a chat on PetsApp
