If your older cat starts losing a lot of weight despite having a
ravenous appetite, the problem might be hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism occurs when a cat's thyroid gland (located at
the base of the neck on either side of the trachea) becomes
enlarged and produces excess amounts of thyroid hormone. The
problem is usually caused by a benign tumor on the thyroid gland,
and it occurs almost exclusively in older cats.
Thyroid hormones play an important role in controlling the
body's
metabolism and thus the general activity level, so the majority of
cats with hyperthyroidism tend to burn up energy too rapidly and
typically suffer weight loss despite having an increased appetite
and increased food intake.
Increased thirst and urination are also associated with this
disease.
Hyperthyroidism causes the heart to start pumping faster and
harder, which can lead to other problems such as high blood
pressure and heart disease. As the thyroid gland enlarges, a small
lump may be palpable on your cat's neck.
Diagnosing Hyperthyroidism
Diagnosing the
disease is relatively simple. After performing a
thorough physical examination, your veterinarian will run a
blood
test to check for elevated levels of thyroid hormone. He or she
will
also check your cat's heart rate and blood pressure. If
hyperthyroidism is diagnosed, your veterinarian may need
to run additional tests to further evaluate your cat's
health
status to better predict which treatment is most appropriate.
These tests might include additional blood work, a urinalysis,
x-rays, or an electrocardiogram (ECG) and ultrasound
examination.
Treatment Options
There are three ways to treat hyperthyroidism: with medication,
surgery, or radiation therapy. The oral medication prevents the
thyroid from overproducing thyroid hormone. There are side effects
associated with the oral medication, which can help to determine
whether this option is right for your cat. Drug therapy does not
actually 'cure' the cat, however, and will need to be given
for the rest of her life.
Surgical removal of the affected thyroid is another course of
treatment. If your cat is healthy enough to undergo surgery, this
option can offer a more permanent solution to hyperthyroidism.
Radioactive iodine therapy involves giving your cat an injection
that destroys the diseased thyroid tissue without harming other
organs. Because of the regulations associated with handling
radioactive materials, this treatment must be performed at a
specialty practice
or at a veterinary teaching hospital. This type of therapy can be
expensive and may require a week of hospitalization.
Is Hyperthyroidism Preventable?
Because the
exact cause of hyperthyroidism is unknown, it is difficult to
determine what measures to take to avoid it. Regular physical
examinations starting when your cat reaches middle age will help in
making an early diagnosis and initiating prompt treatment.
HYPERTHYROIDISM TYPICAL SIGNS:
• Weight loss, usually despite an increased appetite
(although some cats have a decreased appetite)
• Restlessness or hyperactivity
• Diarrhea and/or vomiting
• Increased thirst
• Irritability or nervousness
• Unkempt haircoat
• Lethargy or weakness
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