Hyperthyroidism in cats, nutrition and treatment options

What is the function of the thyroid gland in a cat's body?

The task of the thyroid gland is to release the metabolic hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (tetraiodothyronine, or thyroxine) into the blood. They have a major influence on various processes in the animal's body, such as oxygen consumption, heat metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure and much more. In embryos, they are important for the healthy formation and development of the central nervous system and the skeleton.

How does hyperthyroidism develop in cats?

If your cat is suspected of suffering from hyperthyroidism, a number of tests are first necessary to rule out or diagnose the disease. It can then be treated individually.

Cats with hyperthyroidism can subsequently develop chronic renal insufficiency, heart disease or diabetes mellitus. Gastrointestinal diseases are also possible, for example of the pancreas or liver.

Depending on the type of hyperthyroidism, other diseases can develop because the overproduction of hormones causes further damage to the body. This must be prevented with suitable treatment. Possible secondary conditions include palpitations and heart palpitations, high blood pressure or altered values such as high blood glucose levels, changes in the electrolyte balance and an increase in liver enzymes.

Urine values can also change. They then contain an excessive amount of proteins or glucose. Hyperthyroidism can also affect the eyes. The enlarged thyroid gland can be clearly felt. The cat must therefore also be examined for secondary damage if hyperthyroidism is suspected or has been diagnosed.

Causes of hyperthyroidism in cats

The cause of hyperthyroidism in cats is not exactly known. However, there are usually one or more benign nodules (adenomas) that form on the thyroid tissue. These nodules are found in one or both of the two thyroid lobes that produce too much thyroid hormone. Here the tissue multiplies uncontrollably. As a result, more hormones are produced.

Very rarely (2%) a malignant tumour develops. These are then carcinomas. It is therefore very important to have your cat examined as soon as certain symptoms appear.

Hyperthyroidism usually occurs in cats older than eight years. Younger cats do not usually develop the disease. It is not yet clear why cats in particular develop hyperthyroidism so often. This is why it is monitored by vets as standard.

It is suspected that certain ingredients in the food are responsible for the development of the disease, such as bisphenol (BPA) - a plasticiser used to coat the food cans. Immune disorders, infections or certain types of cat litter are also thought to be the cause. Only feed your cat high-quality organic food to rule out such triggers from the outset.

What are the symptoms of a cat with hyperthyroidism?

As too many thyroid hormones are produced due to hyperthyroidism, the metabolism works harder than with a normal thyroid function. Cats suffering from hyperthyroidism appear restless and can hardly rest. This not only has consequences for the animal's physical areas. Behaviour and general condition also suffer.

The cat becomes hyperactive and hardly ever calms down. It develops a ravenous appetite, but still loses weight, so that it can lose a lot of weight. In addition, cats can become very thirsty, vomit more frequently and suffer from increased diarrhoea. The coat falls out and appears dull, making it partially bald. Urine production increases. The cat may become aggressive and groom itself more frequently, even to the point of having hairless patches. Rarely, it may appear weak and lose its appetite. If these symptoms appear, you should definitely take your cat to a vet.

What medication is given to cats with hyperthyroidism?

There are basically several methods of treating hyperthyroidism in cats:

• Medication (tablets or oral solution)
• Ointment
• Diet with iodine-reduced organic cat food

Especially at the beginning of the treatment, the hyperfunction should only be inhibited by medication. In this way, the vet can determine whether the kidneys are affected. If necessary, he can intervene in this way. In some cats, the dosage of medication can be adjusted to maintain a low level of hyperfunction. This ensures that kidney function does not deteriorate and that blood flow to the organs is maintained.

What options are there for treating thyroid function in cats?

In addition to drug treatment, as just described, the thyroid tissue can be eliminated by administering radioactive iodine. Radioactive iodine therapy can permanently eliminate hyperthyroidism. Removal of the thyroid gland can also be considered in rare cases. However, this requires the lifelong administration of thyroid hormones.

Are there any home remedies for treating a cat's thyroid function?

There are no direct home remedies for treating hyperthyroidism in cats. However, you can try homeopathic remedies and you should support your cat's hyperthyroidism with a diet that is better suited to it.

It is well worth a try, as homeopathic remedies can support conventional medication. Nevertheless, your cat's blood values must be checked regularly to ensure the correct dose of medication is being administered.
It's best to talk to your vet about this and ask for advice on which remedy is best for your cat.

What is the life expectancy of a cat with hyperthyroidism?

Our recommendations for your four-legged friend:

Sample packs for cats

Sensitive organic wet food