Top Four Signs of Feline Hyperthyroidism to Look For
Feline hyperthyroidism, caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones, is a common condition in older cats. But unlike well-known conditions and diseases such as Rabies, it can be difficult to spot feline hyperthyroidism as symptoms can start slowly and be subtle. Some are often falsely attributed to aging by well-meaning owners.
Cat hyperthyroidism can be deadly if left untreated. But it doesn’t have to be. If it is caught early, most cats can fully recover through feline hyperthyroidism radioiodine treatment. As a pet owner, it’s important to keep an eye out for the most common feline hyperthyroidism symptoms. If you’ve noticed these changes in your cat, make an appointment with your veterinarian right away.
- Excessive thirst and increased urination
This is a common feline hyperthyroidism symptom, occurring in approximately one half of all cats diagnosed with feline hyperthyroidism. It can also indicate kidney problems. Either way, cats exhibiting this feline hyperthyroidism symptom should be taken to the veterinarian. - Increased appetite and weight loss
If your cat is eating more but losing weight, he may be exhibiting a symptom of feline hyperthyroidism. Because the thyroid helps regulate metabolism, sudden changes in food intake and weight can be cause for alarm. However, this typically occurs early in the progression of feline hyperthyroidism. If you can catch a feline hyperthyroidism symptom quickly, you increase the chances of successfully treating your cat. - Anxiety
Signs of anxiety in a cat – including pacing, yowling for no apparent reason, and restlessness – are a common symptom of feline hyperthyroidism. This is due to increased stimulation in the nervous system which is a common occurrence in cats with feline hyperthyroidism. - Changes in coat
Cats with hyperthyroidism often experience changes their coat. For cats with long hair, their coat will often appear dull, matted, and unkempt. Cats may also groom obsessively, leading to bald spots.
This list of feline hyperthyroidism symptoms is not exhaustive, but it should provide a good starting point for concerned pet owners. Remember, feline hyperthyroidism is often treatable when caught early. If your cat is exhibiting these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. More on feline hyperthyroidism symptoms.