Thyroid Levels in Cats

Cats may develop thyroid conditions as well as humans. Thyroid levels in cats may vary, depending on the thyroid condition. Two conditions that can affect thyroid levels in cats are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. If you suspect your cat has a thyroid problem, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

  1. Identification

    • The thyroid gland is located on either side of a cat's esophagus and is shaped similar to a butterfly. This gland is responsible for producing hormones for organ function and metabolism. Thyroid levels in cats may be influenced by health conditions such as hypothyroidism or other hormonal imbalances.

    Hyperthyroidism

    • Hyperthyroidism may affect thyroid levels in cats. This is one of the most common disorders that occurs in the cat and most often affects cats over the age of 10. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism in cats may include weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, increased appetite, increased energy, increased thirst and increased frequency of urination. Some cats can experience symptoms such as a decrease in appetite, decrease in energy, labored breathing and weakness. One cause of hyperthyroidism in cats is a benign tumor of the thyroid gland known as an adenoma. According to Thyroid Info.com, this condition causes thyroid levels in cats to become very high.

    Hypothyroidism

    • According to PetPlace.com, hypothyroidism is rare in cats. The symptoms associated with hypothyroidism in cats may include weight gain, increased sleeping, lethargy, intolerance to cold, constipation, decreased appetite, hair loss and skin disorders. The causes of hypothyroidism in cats may include iodine deficiency, thyroid tumors and medication for hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism may be called under-active thyroid and causes thyroid levels in cats to become too low.

    Diagnosis

    • In order to determine if your cat has normal thyroid levels, your veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests such as a CBC (complete blood count), urinalysis, biochemical profile and X-rays to rule out other conditions. Blood tests to check the thyroxine levels (T-4) in cats and the tri-iodothyronine levels (T-3) may also be performed.

    Treatment

    • If your cat has been found to have abnormal thyroid levels, your veterinarian will determine the best course of treatment upon diagnosis. Synthetic thyroid medication may be necessary to treat low thyroid function, as occurs with hypothyroidism. For cats that suffer from hyperthyroidism, the treatment may include anti-thyroid medications and surgical removal of the thyroid gland. Alternative treatments may also be beneficial for cats that have mild hyperthyroidism.