Surgical Treatment for Feline Hyperthyroidism
Risks and Disadvantages
Although surgery is an option for cats suffering from hyperthyroidism, it is not always regarded as the best solution to this condition. Why? Surgical removal of the thyroid glands requires anesthesia which involves risk, especially for older cats. An additional risk includes damaging a cat's parathyroid glands located behind the thyroid glands and which are responsible for maintaining stable blood-calcium levels.
Additional Disadvantages and Potential Complications of Surgical Treatment
- There is always a risk that abnormal thyroid tissues may inadvertently get left behind. If this happens, hyperthyroidism can recur within 6 to 24 months.
- Pre and post-surgical monitoring is expensive.
- If a cat's laryngeal nerve is damaged during surgery, the cat may experience a voice change that may be permanent.
- Horner's syndrome may result. This syndrome is when nearby neurologic tissue is damaged. It causes a cat's eye to squint and draw back into the socket, the pupil will constrict and the third eyelid will come up.
- Some cats develop hypothyroidism after surgery and must take supplementation tablets either temporarily or permanently
It should be noted that there do exist unique advantages to surgery. If no complications develop, surgery eradicates the need for further treatment as it is considered permanent. Also, no special facilities are necessary to pursue this treatment.
If you have questions or concerns regarding your senior cat's health, contact your veterinarian.