HYPERTHYROIDISM IN A DOMESTIC SHORT-HAIRED CAT

1st October 2024 by Katharine Nelson

Veterinary casebook:

Hyperthyroidism in a Domestic Short-haired Cat

Overview

Thimble is a 14 year old cat.

Problem

Thimble had been losing weight despite having a very good appetite. She had also been restless, especially in the evenings, waking her owners with some yowling at night.

Investigations

A physical examination showed that Thimble had indeed lost 20% of her bodyweight. Her heart rate was increased. A blood test showed a high level of thyroid hormone, but normal values for kidney function and sugar levels.

Diagnosis

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Outcome

Thimble was treated with medicine to reduce the thyroid level and monitored with regular blood tests and examinations. Once she was stable, she was referred to the Royal Veterinary College to receive an injection of radioactive iodine. This treatment permanently cured the hyperthyroidism so that Thimble did not require any long-term medication.

Discussion

Hyperthyroidism is common in older cats and there are a number of treatment options. Many cats are treated with medication (tablets, liquid or cream that is absorbed across the skin) on a permanent basis. There are also options of using a special iodine-restricted diet to reduce the amount of thyroid hormone that the body can produce or having surgery to remove the thyroid gland. However, for a lot of cats, radioactive iodine treatment gives the best chance of a permanent cure with a very low chance of complications. This is a treatment that is used for hyperthyroidism in people too!