Hyperthyroidism is the most common hormone disorder among cats, according to Doctors Foster and Smith of Pet Education. Symptoms of the disease, which most often occur in middle-aged to older cats, are caused by the overproduction of hormones by the thyroid gland. Symptoms vary greatly from one cat to the next and can include weight loss, hair loss, overeating and loss of appetite. Traditional treatments for hyperthyroidism include the medication methimazole, surgical removal of the thyroid gland and radioactive iodine. However, some pet guardians are turning to alternative and natural treatments to battle the disease.
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Holistic Veterinarian
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Because hyperthyroidism is a life-threatening medical condition for your cat, you should not attempt to treat the disease naturally without the guidance of a skilled holistic veterinarian. You can visit the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association's website for a directory of holistic veterinarians to find a practitioner in your area.
Diet
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Nearly every holistic veterinarian begins treatment by examining your cat's entire physical condition, environment and diet. Although the veterinarian will make specific recommendations based upon your cat's individual condition, he will no doubt advise you to add and eliminate certain foods from your cat's diet to ease its suffering from hyperthyroidism. Additions include beef or poultry in dietary supplements, as well as selenium, arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Soy will likely be eliminated, along with certain vegetables.
Herbs
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Certain herbs have shown some benefits in treating hyperthyroidism in felines. These include bladderwack, also known as kelp. Bladderwack is considered by many homeopathic practitioners to have the ability to control an overactive thyroid gland. Astragalus is a Chinese herb that is often prescribed for cats with hyperthyroidism. The herb is said to treat the endocrine system as well as regulate blood pressure and blood sugar. Other commonly used herbs include chamomile, lycopus and zingiber.
Acupuncture
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Some holistic and homeopathic veterinarians include acupuncture as part of their treatment protocol for cats with hyperthyroid disorders. If you would like to consider acupuncture as part of your cat's treatment, ask your holistic veterinarian to recommend a practitioner in your area or visit the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society's website to find a directory of licensed veterinary acupuncturists.
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