If you notice your cat acting unusually hyper and losing weight, they could very well have hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland is located in the lower neck consisting of two lobes on either side attached to the windpipe, and it's main responsibility is regulating the animals metabolism.
When the gland is creating too much thyroid hormone, this is called hyperthyroidism making it the most common hormone disorder affecting cat health.
Producing a thyroid hormone called thyroxine (T4) and in addition a small amount of triiodothyronine (T3), these hormones effect every organ and body cell.
Hyperthyroidism is typically difficult to identify because very often there exists an underlying disease present such as kidney (Renal) disease, heart disorder, and liver failure. A blood test is the only way to identify hyperthyroidism where the T4 levels will be elevated.
Hyperthyroidism in Cats Symptoms
Although there often are signs, such as the cats appetite has suddenly grown, but consistently losing weight.
Increased activity with thirst, and urination is additionally a signal. A cat that has a fast heart rate and is vomiting and has diarrhea could be another symptom.
In the event that your cat has been suffer from the disease, the anti-thyroid pill Methimazole (Tapazole) could be given daily, but this drug which is also prescribed for humans with hyperthyroid, will have to be administered for the rest of their lives. Methimazole for cats is not a curative for the disease.
Your cat could possibly have side effects with Methimazole including vomiting, absence of appetite, and depression. In addition it s also known to reduce low blood cell counts which is often serious, especially for elderly cats.
Another option is to have the enlarged thyroid gland surgically removed. This is definitely a final option, one reason is some cats have thyroid cells inside the chest cavity where removal is difficult. These animals will remain hyperthyroid even with surgery.
Radioactive iodine therapy is a very effective way to treat cats with hyperthyroidism. without any adverse side effects Radioiodine treatment (I-131) has a cure rate of 95% of Hyperthyroidism in cats.
Cats with hyperthyroidism frequently have some kidney disease or Liver disease, especially if their older.
Cats with kidney disease will actually show signs of worsening after treatment of hyperthyroidism, because the faster metabolism, accompanied with a hyperthyroid pumps more blood in the kidneys.
The modern way of thinking is to try a natural approach.There are many herbs on the market that the (FDA) has approved and are safe.
Herbs for Cats with Hyperthyroidism:
- Chamomilla - Known for its soothing and calming properties.
- Lycopus - Promotes the endocrine system, is also great for their coat.
- Zingiber - Aids in digestion and is also great for its soothing and calming effects.
- Cratageous - Aids the heart and circulatory system, and calms heart palpitations and assists a fast pulse.
- Nux vom - Used for nausea or bilious, and irritability.
With reasons unknown, Hyperthyroidism in Cats has increased over the past 25 years. I would have to say it is probably due to over over vaccination, the unnatural foods that we are feeding, and also environmental factors.
I think this is what my little guy was diagnosed with a couple weeks ago. I've been looking for different medications, I heard that methimazole for cats is supposed to help. Do you know how effective it is? That would really help, thanks.
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