Feline Hypothyroidism Symptoms and Treatments

Feline hypothyroidism is rare in cats, though hyperthyroidism is much more common. Hypothyroidism occurs when there is too little thyroid hormone in the cat's blood - an underactive thyroid gland. If thyroid hormones are given to test whether it is the problem, the cat may show hair growth even though hypothyroidism may not be the problem. This is because the hormones generally stimulates the body. If it is overactive, the metabolism speeds up and is called hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland. This gland is responsible for producing and secreting thyroid hormone (thyroxine), which affects nearly all body systems. Thyroxine is the hormone that is primarily responsible for regulating the metabolic rate of many different tissues in the body. In hypothyroidism, not enough thyroxine is produced, which causes the metabolism of these tissues to slow down.

Hypothyroidism is not always a simple, straightforward disease to diagnose. Various tests are available to diagnose the condition and a combination of tests may be required. Proper diagnosis also includes a thorough history, documentation of clinical signs, a thorough physical examination, and diagnostic tests to assess various organ functions, including thyroid function. A diagnostic work-up may include the following:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Biochemical profile
• Urinalysis
• Thyroxine (T4) level, tri-iodothyronine (T3) level
• Thyrotropin stimulation test
• Thoracic (chest) and abdominal radiographs (X-rays) in certain cases
• Other tests to rule out other hormonal disorders, such as hyperadrenocorticism (overproduction of cortisone hormone) and acromegaly (over production of growth hormone)

Recommended Treatment: Hypothyroidism is usually permanent and requires lifetime treatment with daily hormone replacement therapy.

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