Is thyroid disease fatal in cats?
Feline hyperthyroidism is treatable and can be completely cured if spotted early. Leaving your cat’s hyperthyroidism untreated, however, can result in many difficulties. It can even be fatal.
Is it possible to treat hyperthyroidism in cats?
However, feline hyperthyroidism is completely treatable once diagnosed and all painful symptoms can be managed or avoided entirely. What is Hyperthyroidism in Cats? Put simply, hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid. The thyroid is the gland which controls your cat’s metabolism, just like in humans.
Which is the most common thyroid problem in cats?
Hyperthyroidism is the most common thyroid problem in cats. Katie, the cat pictured here, was one of the estimated 1 in 10 cats aged 10 years or older who are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.
How can you tell if your cat has hyperthyroidism?
Most cats with hyperthyroidism have elevated levels of the thyroid hormone T4 in their bloodstream, but a small percentage of cats with hyperthyroidism have T4 levels within the normal range. If your cat does not have elevated T4 levels but your veterinarian still suspects your cat has hyperthyroidism,…
What happens if you remove one thyroid gland in a cat?
If your cat has one of their thyroid glands removed, the other gland may develop the same problem further down the line. If this happens, symptoms will return. Removing both thyroid glands puts your cat at risk of developing low calcium. Treatment for a cat with hyperthyroidism can become expensive.
What are the signs of thyroid problems in cats?
The most common thyroid problem in cats is hyperthyroidism and involves the overproduction or over-release of the thyroid hormone T-4 in the bloodstream. Signs are weight loss and increased appetite.
What not to feed cats with hyperthyroidism?
But for now, do not feed your cats canned or dry, fish-flavored cat foods. If you feed your cats fish, avoid fish like salmon and whitefish that are known to concentrate this chemical. Not all cats that develop hyperthyroidism eat fish products. The EPA veterinarians who conducted the study pointed out…
What are the effects of untreated thyroid disease in cats?
If hyperthyroidism in cats is left untreated, it can cause serious problems and even be fatal. For instance, thyroid hormones cause the heart to beat faster and contract more strongly. Over time, this can impair the normal functioning of the heart and trigger cardiac arrest.
What is the best cat food for thyroid?
When looking to choose the best cat food for your cat with Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism Over production of hormones by the thyroid gland located at the front of neck. , you should choose a food that’s low in carbohydrates, loaded with easily digestible protein, and low in iodine . Jun 27 2019