Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid glands) is a very common disorder of older cats.
It is caused by an increase in production of thyroid hormones from the thyroid glands most commonly due to a benign tumour of the gland.
Thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, over production therefore leads to a speeding up of all body processes. Cats with hyperthyroidism tend to burn up energy too rapidly and typically suffer weight loss despite having an increased appetite and increased food intake. As the disease progress other parts of the cats will suffer and they can become quite ill.
The classic signs of hyperthyroidism are
- Weight loss , usually with a good appetite
- An increased thirst
- An increased heart rate
- An active cat
- Often an unkempt poor coat
- There can be low level digestive signs of some vomiting or looseness of stool with the gut churning faster
Diagnosis can be made with your reported history, a good physical examination, palpation of the thyroid glands and some blood tests to confirm a raised hormone level.
Fortunately, the vast majority of cats that develop hyperthyroidism can be treated very successfully and most cats will make a complete recovery if diagnosed early.