Back to Disease DictionaryEndocrine
Hyperthyroidism in Cats
Excess thyroid hormone production, very common in senior cats. Characterized by weight loss despite good appetite and restlessness.
Vet Supervised
Symptoms
- Weight loss despite good appetite
- Increased thirst/urination
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Increased heart rate
Related Symptom Pages
Causes
- Benign thyroid tumor (adenomatous hyperplasia)
- Environmental factors (diet, chemicals)
Diagnosis
1
Blood test (T4 level)
2
Thyroid palpation
3
Blood pressure measurement
4
Cardiac evaluation
Treatment
- Anti-thyroid medication (methimazole)
- Iodine-restricted diet
- Radioactive iodine therapy
- Surgical removal
Prognosis
Good prognosis with proper treatment; many cats achieve normal life expectancy.
Severity: Medium
Prevention
- Regular thyroid screening from age 8
- Dietary management
Commonly Affected Breeds
Epidemiology
Age Range
Common over 8 years (average onset age 13)
Prevalence
Approximately 10% of cats over 10 years
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