Hyperthyroidism occurs when your cat's thyroid gland produces too many of the hormones known as thyroxin and triiodothyronine. This is the most common feline hormone disorder, according to Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, eating more, vomiting, drinking and urinating more, nervousness, behavior changes and hair loss. Conventional treatments include the medication methimazole, surgery and radioactive iodine. Natural treatments can be used during conventional treatment or, if the cat has mild hyperthyroidism, instead of conventional treatment.
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Herbs
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A commonly prescribed herb for cats with hyperthyroid is bugleweed, also known as lycopus. The herb must be given every day for several days before you see an improvement. It is generally effective only in mild cases of hyperthyroidism. Lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is prescribed in some cases. This herb may reduce the overactivity in the thyroid and alleviate symptoms associated with mild hyperthyroidism. Herbs are most often administered to cats in teas, added to their foods or given in capsule form.
Diet
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Changes in your cat's diet might aid in treatment of hyperthyroidism. According to the Cat Health Guide, cats who eat beef, poultry or have dietary supplements have been shown to have a lowered risk for developing hyperthyroidism. Cats with hyperthyroidism should be given supplements and/or fed foods rich in iodine, selenium, arachidonic acid and anddocosahexaenoic acid. A holistic veterinarian may also recommend that your cat be put on a homemade diet of human-grade ingredients primarily made up of beef and poultry.
Veterinarian
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Hyperthyroidism is a serious condition. Treating it naturally should not be taken lightly. Natural treatments may be no safer than pharmaceuticals and other conventional therapies if they are given in the wrong way or in the wrong dosages. Because of these factors, when you begin treating your cat's hyperthyroidism with natural therapies -- whether as the sole treatment or in conjunction with conventional treatment -- work with a holistic veterinarian. To locate a holistic veterinarian near you, go to the directory on the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association's Web site at http://www.holisticvetlist.com/.
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