About Hypothyroidism in Cats

Feline hypothyroidism is a disorder that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland makes hormones that control metabolic activities, and when it stops producing sufficient levels of these hormones, hypothyroidism results. While this condition is rare, it will affect the quality of life of your kitty, so knowing the symptoms and signs is important to keeping your cat healthy and happy throughout its life.

  1. Function

    • The thyroid gland produces two different types of hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These hormones control how effective your cat's digestive system is, how much energy your cat has and how its heart and kidneys function. Too many of these hormones cause hyperactivity and strain on the heart. Too little of them and your cat may lose energy and appetite while gaining weight.

    Significance

    • While hypothyroidism is rare in cats and is not usually life threatening, it still is important to treat it as a serious disorder. Hypothyroidism literally means that your cat has too little thyroid, which means that all of its systems will slow down. Not only does it affect physical abilities, but your cat's mental responses will also be dulled.

    Effects

    • Hypothyroidism has many visible effects as well as invisible ones. Because its body is slowing down, your cat's hair may stop growing and become matted and dull--even in the face of excessive grooming. Your cat will likely lose interest in toys and other things going on around it. Ligament and joint damage are also common side effects of this disorder.

    Identification

    • Hypothyroidism in cats is typified by weight gain, even if the cat is eating the same amount or less than it has in the past. Your kitty may become lethargic, extremely thirsty all the time and have an itchy, flaky, shedding coat. Cats often stop using the litter box when they develop hypothyroidism.

    Misconceptions

    • It is easy to confuse hypothyroidism with the symptoms of age since most cats who develop this condition are 10 years of age or older. However, just because your cat has hit the decade mark does not mean that incontinence, chronic fatigue and mental slowness are imminent. As soon as you notice a change in your cat's behavior, you should consult a veterinarian to see if the symptoms are just part of your cat's aging process. The odds are good that they are actually indicative of a health condition and can be treated so that your cat can get back to normal.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Feline hypothyroidism is best treated with hormone replacement pills which are given orally to your cat twice a day. Medications are prescribed by weight, but have to be customized to the cat since every cat's metabolism is slightly different. What may be perfect for one ten pound cat may be not quite enough for another otherwise identical feline.