San Antonio Veterinarian Clinic

Hyperthyroidism and Cats

There are many different chronic diseases that can develop in a cat. Especially when your cat is older, there is a whole list of conditions that can occur that may require more extensive care by a San Antonio veterinarian clinic than the typical pet. One such disease that most often strikes cats that are at least ten years old is hyperthyroidism.

Cat Symptoms There are many symptoms that a cat can exhibit that may indicate that they suffer from hyperthyroidism. Only a San Antonio veterinarian clinic can diagnose your cat with the disease but you can certainly ascertain that something is wrong. Your cat may begin to eat more but still lose weight. It may also drink and urinate more than usual. A cat may also become more aggressive or hyperactive as a result of the disease. High blood pressure and other heart related issues can also be a result.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, you need to take your cat to a San Antonio veterinarian clinic as soon as you can for a diagnosis. The vet will take a blood sample and test the levels of the hormones that are produced by the thyroid. Based on the results, they will make a recommendation for treatment of your cat.

Options for Treating Cat Hyperthyroidism

A San Antonio veterinarian clinic has three options when it comes to the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Medication is one of the most common treatments. This medication will help to control the production of hormones. Side effects may occur but they will likely decrease over time. Surgery is yet another option for some cats. This option removes the thyroid. The cat will need to take hormone supplements to make up for the lack of a thyroid, however. Cats with no other health issues may be eligible for a radioactive iodine treatment. This treatment will kill the bad thyroid cells over time allowing the cat to regain a normally operating thyroid.

A disease such as hyperthyroidism can be difficult for a pet owner to have to deal with. A San Antonio veterinarian clinic will walk you through each step required on the road to a healthy cat. When left untreated, a disease such as hyperthyroidism can result in heart failure, kidney damage or even death.