Hyperthyroidism in Cats
Feline Hyperthyroidism is a disease of the endocrine system. It is the most common endocrine disorder that affects cats and one of the most common diseases of middle-aged and senior cats. It is caused when the thyroid gland produces excess amounts of the thyroid hormones. This excess production is found in tumor-like cells on the thyroid. Ninety-eight to ninety-nine percent of these are benign tumors, with only one to two percent of the cases being cancerous. Hyperthyroidism typically appears in cats nine to thirteen years of age.
The thyroid gland virtually affects every system in the body, therefore symptoms can be wide-ranging. Cats may demonstrate: weight loss, increased appetite, changes in hair coat (alopecia, excessive grooming behavior), vomiting, diarrhea, increased activity or restlessness, increased thirst and urination, panting or respiratory distress, heat intolerance, stress intolerance, increased heart rate and/or heart murmur, increased blood pressure and occasionally, depression or weakness may be seen. Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed with a physical examination, patient history and blood testing.
Laboratory blood tests are utilized in order to diagnose Feline Hyperthyroidism
