Hyperthyroidism in cats

Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common endocrine disorders in cats, especially among older individuals. It is a condition in which the thyroid glands produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones (thyroxine – T4 and triiodothyronine – T3), which leads to an accelerated metabolism and causes a number of clinical symptoms. At the Szmaragdowa Veterinary Clinic, we offer comprehensive diagnostics and effective treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats, including pharmacological treatment with thiamazole.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in cats

Hyperthyroidism in cats can cause a wide range of clinical symptoms that are not always immediately associated with thyroid problems. The most common symptoms include:

• Excessive weight loss despite increased appetite
• Agitation and excessive activity
• Increased appetite (pica, eating more food)
• Increased thirst and increased urination (polyuria and polydipsia)
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Heart rhythm disturbances such as tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
• Anxiety and excessive tremors
• Increased sensitivity to temperature changes
• Increased hair growth (thickening, brittleness)

Due to the variety of symptoms, hyperthyroidism can be difficult to diagnose initially, especially since some symptoms can be confused with other diseases, such as heart or kidney disease. Therefore, early diagnosis of the disease is crucial for effective treatment.

Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism

At the Szmaragdowa Veterinary Clinic, we use modern diagnostic methods that allow for the precise diagnosis of hyperthyroidism in cats.

The diagnostic process includes:

1. Clinical history and evaluation of symptoms: A thorough interview with the owner and observation of clinical symptoms are the first steps in diagnosing hyperthyroidism.
2. Laboratory tests:

• Blood biochemistry: Biochemical tests will focus on creatinine, urea, electrolyte levels, and overall health.
• Complete blood count: This may reveal changes in the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and other blood cells.
• Thyroxine (T4) level measurement: This is a key diagnostic test. In hyperthyroidism, T4 levels are significantly elevated. At our clinic, we perform precise T4 tests to confirm the diagnosis.

3. TSH stimulation test: Although less common, this test evaluates the pituitary gland’s response to the administration of synthetic TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). In cases of hyperthyroidism, the response is weakened.
4. Thyroid ultrasound: In cases where laboratory test results indicate hyperthyroidism, we perform an ultrasound examination to assess the thyroid glands and detect any tumors that may be causing the condition.
5. Use of the K factor:

• Blood and urine analysis: The K factor can be used in procedures to assess blood or urine parameters to provide more detailed information about an animal’s health. For example, it can help assess creatinine levels, which, when excessive, may indicate kidney problems.
• Metabolic and cardiac diseases: Modified values in metabolic analyses, particularly in the context of cardiovascular diseases, may benefit from the K factor to provide a more accurate picture of the patient’s health.
• Adjustment of drug doses: In veterinary medicine, the K coefficient can also be used to determine drug doses, especially in animals with chronic diseases where their metabolism or kidney or liver function may be altered.

Treatment of hyperthyroidism – Thiamazole at the Szmaragdowa Veterinary Clinic

Depending on the diagnostic results and the cat’s health, we use different treatment methods. One of the most commonly chosen pharmacological methods is treatment with thiamazole.
Thiamazole is an antithyroid drug that works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) in the thyroid glands. The drug acts on the thyroid peroxidase enzyme, which is responsible for incorporating iodine into tyrosine, which is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. Inhibition of this process results in a decrease in thyroid hormone levels in the blood, which helps control the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Advantages of using thiamazole:

1. Effective reduction of thyroid hormone levels – Thiamazole helps restore hormonal balance in your cat’s body.
2. Alternative to surgical and radioiodine treatment – It is an excellent option for cats that are not eligible for surgery or radioiodine therapy.
3. Dosage adjustment – The drug can be used in different doses, allowing the treatment to be tailored to the individual needs of the cat.

Dosage and administration of thiamazole:

● The dose of tiamozole depends on the cat’s health and test results. The drug is usually administered orally in tablet form.
● We usually start with an initial dose, which can be gradually adjusted depending on the response to treatment and follow-up test results.
● Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone (T4) levels is essential to ensure that the dose is appropriate.

Other treatments for hyperthyroidism

In addition to drug therapy, there are other treatments for hyperthyroidism that may be recommended depending on your cat’s condition, such as:
Radioiodine therapy: This method involves introducing an isotope of iodine into the cat’s body, which destroys the overactive thyroid cells.
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland: If the hyperthyroidism is caused by thyroid tumors, the gland is removed.

Monitoring and control of treatment

Once treatment with thiamazole has begun, it is important to monitor your cat’s health regularly to ensure that the therapy is effective and safe. At our clinic, we offer:

● Regular checks of thyroid hormone (T4) levels to adjust the dose of the medication.
● Blood tests to assess your cat’s overall health and monitor kidney, heart, and other organ function.
● Adjustment of therapy based on test results and your pet’s health.

Hyperthyroidism in cats is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. At the Szmaragdowa Veterinary Clinic, we offer comprehensive diagnostics and pharmacological treatment with thiamazole, as well as alternative treatment methods, such as surgery. Thanks to our experienced specialists and modern technologies, we help cats recover and improve their quality of life.