Hyperthyroidism most commonly affects older cats (8 years and older). It is usually caused by a benign (malignant) growth of the thyroid gland. This gland produces thyroid hormones and when the gland grows it produces too much.
A single Radioiodine dose is curative in around 95% of cats, 5% require a second treatment. Pet Doctors offers re-treatment free of charge for all cats treated with Radioiodine Treatment at a Pet Doctors clinic.
What are the symptoms?
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite (like your cat just can’t eat enough)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Rapid heart rate
- Matted, dry, dull fur
- Increased thirst and toileting
- Strange / unusual behaviour (crying, hyperactive, aggression)
Diagnosis and treatment
Hyperthyroidism is most commonly diagnosed through a blood test - which we recommend annually after 7 years of age. We will often recommend additional blood and urine tests to rule out other significant disease (such as liver and kidney disease) that could impact your cat’s prognosis.
There are four main treatment options: 1. Radioiodine Treatment; 2. Medical treatment daily (for life); 3. Surgical removal of the abnormal gland; or 4. Special prescription diet-only feeding (indoor cats only). Your cat has individual needs so your vet will help you select the best treatment option for them.
Left untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, blindness (due to retinal detachment) and ultimately it can be fatal.
Radioiodine treatment is offered at our Lynfield practice in Auckland and our Dinsdale clinic in Hamilton. To find out more please contact your closest clinic directly or use the contact form.
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Pet Doctors Dinsdale
42 Whatawhata Road
Dinsdale, Hamilton
07 847 2669
Pet Doctors Papatoetoe East
93 East Tamaki Road
Papatoetoe, Auckland
09 278 5343
Pet Doctors Harewood
207 Harewood Road
Harewood, Christchurch
03 352 2574