Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, is rare in cats and occurs most often in cats who have had a radioactive iodine treatment or surgery for hyperthyroidism. While it's not life-threatening, hypothyroidism does affect the cat's quality of life. If you suspect that your cat is hypothyroid, ask your veterinarian to do blood tests to check the cat's thyroid levels.
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Symptoms
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The symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain; dry, itchy skin and excessive dander; greasy, matted fur; aggression or anxiety; and lack of energy and zest for life.
Treatment
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The most common treatment for hypothyroid cats is thyroxine (generic name, levothyroxine), a thyroid hormone supplement. Thyroxine can be compounded into a liquid, soft moist treats or a gel to rub inside an ear tip for cats who are difficult to pill.
Holistic Treatment
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Kelp, which contains iodine, helps some hypothyroid cats. Consult a holistic veterinarian for the correct dose for your cat.
Radioactive Iodine Treatment
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Less than five percent of cats become hypothyroid after radioactive iodine treatment, according to SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Center.
Regular Checkups
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Hypothyroid cats on medication should be monitored regularly to make sure their thyroid values are normal.
Signs of Improvement
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Lethargic cats should become more active within a week of beginning treatment. Most hypothyroid cats begin losing excess weight within two to four weeks of starting treatment.
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