Remedies Available for Hyperthyroidism in Cats

The thyroid glands produce too much thyroid hormones, which causes hyperthyroidism. It is the most widespread feline hormonal disorder. Even though it’s treatable, it may make your cat unpleasant. Loss of weight, increased drinking, frequent urine, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, irritability, hyperactivity, and aggression are all manifestations of hyperthyroidism.

The diagnosis is made from the simultaneous discoveries of suitable clinical symptoms, the potential existence of a pliable thyroid nodule, and the results of blood tests that test for thyroid function. The options for treating thyroid hypertrophy in cats are vast. The choice of treatment is contingent on the expert knowledge of the veterinarian, the extent of the animal’s illness, the expense, and the availability of radioiodine treatment.

Managing Cat Hyperthyroidism

Cat owners will find that finding out their pet has hyperthyroidism could be very upsetting. One of the first things they look into is researching the different treatments for their pet’s illness. This article will offer details of the numerous conventional and innovative therapy approaches available today for cat hyperthyroidism.

1. Surgery

Treatment for hyperthyroidism can involve the surgical removal of large thyroid glands, which are functionally independent, particularly in the case of cat owners concerned about the potential negative consequences of long-term oral therapy. Before undergoing surgery, cats are thoroughly examined for any preexisting issues that could cause cardiac or renal problems. 

Removal of both thyroid glands is often required in cats with hyperthyroidism. This is because both glands are afflicted in more than 80% of cases. Numerous thyroidectomy procedures are being developed to decrease the risk of postoperative problems like calcium depletion or the recurrence of hyperthyroidism.

Prior to surgical intervention, a pet diagnostic imaging is vital to guarantee that your pet is receiving the right treatment. You can get in touch with a vet and avail of their CT scan service.

2. Medical Therapy

Methimazole, carbimazole, and iodine-containing medications are common treatments for hyperthyroidism. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol Hydrochloride and similar medicines, can be used with these medical treatments. Methimazole is now the most commonly used drug for treating hyperthyroidism. 

It is taken orally; this medication may also be used topically. Vomiting, anorexia, liver disease, and hematological problems can be adverse side effects of this medicine.

Following treatment, you may have your cat subjected to pet digital radiology. A professional veterinary radiologist can determine whether your pet’s condition has improved.

3. Radioiodine Therapy

The most effective and secure treatment for hyperthyroidism seems to be radioactive Iodine therapy. Intravenous, subcutaneous, or even oral administration are options. While oral delivery is believed to be successful, the risk of exposure to those who provide the medication and the environmental pollutants could make it risky. 

The opportunity to avail of radioiodine I-131 therapy has increased dramatically over the last few years. As a pet owner, you may first find the cost of treatment with radioiodine high; however, any long-term medical treatment or surgery will be the same.

4. Ethanol Ablation

A brand new and non-medicated method to treat cat hyperthyroidism was to destroy thyroid nodules with the use of ethanol. The procedure is carried out in a fully sedated state using ultrasound. The thyroid mass is instilled using ethanol. The level of thyroid hormones is checked. 

The owners reported that their cat’s symptoms of hyperthyroidism disappeared after a week of treatment. Hypothyroidism wasn’t a concern in these cats, and they didn’t require thyroid medications.

5. Heat Ablation

For cats with hyperthyroidism, new treatment options have been devised. In recent research, ultrasound-guided heat ablation of hyperthyroidism was evaluated in nine cats. Although the treatment successfully reduced the amounts of thyroid hormone in each cat, the beneficial effects lasted an average of fewer than four months. Hyperthyroidism returned in every cat within 18 months of completing treatment.