Does My Cat Have a Thyroid Problem? Signs & Treatment Explained
If you've noticed your older cat showing unusual changes such as shifts in behaviour, appetite, or coat condition, they may be suffering from feline hyperthyroidism. This common thyroid disorder mainly affects cats over eight years old and requires careful management with veterinary support.
Recognising the Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism in Cats
Cats are skilled at masking illness, but hyperthyroidism often produces noticeable signs as hormone levels rise. The thyroid gland, located on either side of the neck, produces thyroxine hormones that regulate metabolism, heart function, blood pressure, body temperature, and digestion.
- Increased appetite and thirst: Despite eating more, the cat burns calories rapidly due to a raised metabolic rate.
- Weight loss: Cats often lose weight even when their appetite is increased, a hallmark of hyperthyroidism.
- Restlessness and over-activity: Cats may appear jumpy, unable to settle, or unusually nervous.
- Aggression or nervousness: Behaviour may change, with some cats becoming unusually aggressive towards household members or other pets.
- Weakness and lethargy: As the disease progresses, energy conversion becomes inefficient, leading to weakness.
- Rapid heart rate: The heart works harder to compensate for increased metabolism, which can stress vital organs.
- Poor coat condition: The fur may become greasy, matted, or generally unkempt looking.
Not all cats will show every symptom, and some signs may develop gradually. If you observe any combination of these symptoms, an urgent vet consultation is advised for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
How Is Hyperthyroidism Diagnosed?
Your vet may sometimes detect an enlarged thyroid gland upon physical examination. A definitive diagnosis is made via a blood test measuring thyroxine (T4) levels, which guides both diagnosis and ongoing monitoring. Because these signs can resemble those of diabetes or chronic kidney disease, it is essential to provide your vet with full behavioural and dietary history to aid precise diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Feline Hyperthyroidism
Several effective treatments are available, and the best choice depends on your cat’s overall health, lifestyle, and your preferences. Discuss all options thoroughly with your vet.
- Daily Medication: Carbimazole tablets are commonly prescribed to inhibit excess hormone production. These must be given consistently each day, with routine blood tests to fine-tune the dosage. Commitment to ongoing treatment and monitoring is essential.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: This highly effective treatment targets abnormal thyroid cells with radiation, often offering a cure. However, it requires hospitalisation for 2 to 5 weeks and is limited to specialised centres in the UK. The cost can be high, and contact with your cat during treatment is restricted for safety.
- Thyroidectomy Surgery: Surgical removal of one or both thyroid lobes is an option but carries anaesthetic risks, especially if heart or kidney disease co-exist. Surgery usually follows medical stabilisation to improve safety.
- Prescription Diet: A low-iodine diet can help control hormone production, but strict dietary adherence is necessary. If your cat hunts or is fed outside food, efficacy decreases. This method can be costly and requires commitment to feeding only the special food.
Aftercare and Monitoring
Successful treatment typically results in your cat regaining weight, improved coat quality, normal behaviour, and overall renewed vitality. Since hyperthyroidism is managed rather than cured, remain vigilant for any returning symptoms. Routine vet visits and monitoring blood thyroxine levels help ensure ongoing control and early detection of any relapse.
Remember, early detection and treatment significantly improve quality of life, so never hesitate to consult your vet if you suspect a thyroid problem in your cat.
