Hyperthyroidism is a common, usually treatable disease of older (>10 years old) cats. The most frequently observed symptoms of this disorder are weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite. Hair loss, chronic vomiting, chronic diarrhea and increased thirst are also often present.
Serious medical problems can develop secondary to hyperthyroidism, including heart disease which can lead to sudden death and high blood pressure which can lead to blindness.
If your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it’s time for a physical exam and blood work to rule out or confirm the diagnosis.
Once diagnosed, there are a number of treatment modalities, including daily medication, I-131 radiotherapy, or a strict diet that has been formulated for cats with hyperthyroidism.
Call or click to schedule an appointment for your cat. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about this disease, during your appointment. We also recommend listening to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) brief (approx. 8 min) podcast which includes details of symptoms, testing and treatment options.