Hyperthyroidism
is an issue that primarily affects cats.
The thyroid gland becomes hyperactive and gives off too much thyroid
hormone. Hyperthyroidism in cats often
goes undiagnosed. However, in severe
cases, the most common symptom the owner sees is a cat who has a voracious
appetite, but is losing weight. Often
times, they will have an unkempt hair coat.
They also have a very rapid heart rate.
Other possible symptoms include: increased urination, vomiting,
restlessness, and diarrhea.
The thyroid
gland sits in the throat. A normal
thyroid gland should not be big enough to feel.
However, an enlarged thyroid gland will be palpable. It will feel like two small peas on either
side of the trachea (wind pipe).
Treatment for
hyperthyroidism includes daily medication.
However, as most cat owners know, pilling a cat can be a very difficult
job. Some cats will take the pills if
they are hidden in food (i.e. hotdog, bread, cheese). Another good way to pill a cat is to put it
in the back of the throat and then squirt water into the cat’s mouth. This accomplishes two things. First, the cat will be forced to swallow; and
second, the water will cause the pill to slide down the cat’s throat making it
more comfortable for the cat.
Irradiation of
the thyroid gland is another treatment option that is safe and is actually a
cure. There are special clinics that
will irradiate the thyroid gland. It is
a completely painless process. The cat
usually stays in the hospital for a few days in order to eliminate any
radioactive waste. Then they can go home
and resume a normal life. This treatment
is the ideal treatment for hyperthyroidism.
However, it is also the most expensive and there are not that many
clinics that are licensed to do it.
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