The thyroid gland, located in your cat’s neck, uses dietary iodine to make thyroid hormones that help regulate important body functions including your cat’s:
Hyperthyroidism is a common feline endocrine disorder, most often diagnosed in older cats over age 10. Left untreated, hyperthyroidism can have serious, sometimes fatal, consequences on vital organs like the heart and kidneys. The good news is, this disease is highly manageable and can be controlled with proper veterinary care.
If your cat has hyperthyroidism, her thyroid gland will be enlarged and produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. Left untreated, hyperthyroidism can have serious, sometimes fatal, consequences on vital organs like the heart and kidneys. The good news is, this disease i,s highly manageable and can be controlled with proper veterinary care.
Signs of hyperthyroidism can vary in severity depending on how long a cat has been ill. If your cat exhibits any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian immediately:
Cats with chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus exhibit some signs similar to hyperthyroidism. Your veterinarian may also need to perform tests for these diseases to ensure an accurate diagnosis. If your cat has hyperthyroidism, her thyroid gland will be enlarged and produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.
Four potential options for managing cats with hyperthyroidism are:
The food your cat eats plays an important role in her overall health and well-being. Balanced nutrition is an essential part of an active, healthy lifestyle. For accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask them to recommend the best food for your cat’s thyroid health.
Check out this video about how Prescription Diet cat food can help.
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Learn the importance of changing your cat's food with their changing life stages because one size does not fit all.
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Know the importance of understanding a cat's intelligence, mysterious and compelling nature, and cognitive abilities for building a lasting bond with your pet.
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We advise a 6-month health check up for any new kitten to ensure it's in good health condition. Read more about what to expect at your visit.
Most cat owners have to deal with hairballs at some point. Learn everything you need to know about hairballs and how to help your cat manage them.
Part of keeping cats healthy is ensuring they are clean and well-groomed. Get tips on how and when to bathe and groom your cat.
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If your cat refuses to drink from her water dish, or sees it more of a toy, learn some different ways you can encourage your cat to drink from a bowl.
Understand reasons why your cat might be limping, from joint problems to excessive jumping, as well as when you should be concerned and how you can help.
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