Hi Everyone!
My name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian. I am talking about cat hyperthyroidism today. An overactive thyroid is very common in older cats. A cat with hyperthyroidism will eat more and not gain weight, they can have an elevated blood pressure, and be hyperactive. This is because the thyroid helps to regulate the cat's metabolism. When a cat's thyroid is overactive, making the cat hyperthyroid, the cat's metabolism is increased causing the weight loss.
Most owners come in to see me worried about weight loss and the cat is over ten years old.
Hyperthyroidism is easy and quick to diagnose. A blood sample is needed. A thyroid is checked by evaluating the cat's free T4 with a blood sample. If the T4 is elevated, the cat is hyperthyroid and should be treated.
There are three primary ways to treat a cat with an overactive thyroid.
1) An oral medication can be started to reduce the amount of free T4 in circulation. This will help reduce the cat's symptoms. When lab tests are completed in the future the lab work should be normal.
2) Prescription food can be started to reduce the amount of iodine a cat eats. The most common food is Science Diet Hills Y/D. This treatment plan reduces the products needed for the thyroid to kick out more T4 causing the hyperthyroid symptoms.
3) I-131 is my third option. This option is the most expensive, but it can actually cure the cat of the hyperthyroidism. I-131 therapy reduces the amount of functioning thyroid tissue resolving the overactive thyroid tissue.
A always guys, I home this was super helpful. If you have any experience with hyperthyroidism in your cat, please share in the comment section.
Disclaimer: This video does not replace veterinary care. Always go see your veterinarian if your pet is sick. This video is only for entertainment and educational purposes.
