Thyroid Disorders in Cats and Dogs

 

The thyroid gland produces hormones that affect the body’s metabolism, growth and development. The two most important hormones are tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine or T4) and triodothyronine (T3). There are two conditions caused by a dysfunctional thyroid gland – hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is more common in cats and is caused by an overactive thyroid gland with the resulting overproduction of hormones. Hypothyroidism, which is more common in dogs, is caused by an under active thyroid gland that is not producing enough hormones resulting in decreased metabolism.

Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed so often in cats that it has practically become an epidemic. It is rarely seen in dogs. It is more common in older cats, but may be seen in younger cats as well. Hyperthyroidism is generally a result of benign (non-cancerous) changes or enlargement of the thyroid gland. It seems to be more common among cats that have been fed sub-standard nutrition and food containing artificial preservatives. Some holistic veterinarians feel they have seen an increase in hyperthyroidism that corresponds to the increased vaccination rate for feline leukemia. Viral and bacterial infections can also play a roll, as well as environmental toxins.

Prevention of hypothyroidism is the best approach through proper diet and daily supplements, avoiding unnecessary vaccines, and minimizing exposure to chemical or environmental hazards including cleaning products, X rays, antibiotics and food preservatives.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Excessive thirst (in 10% of hyperthyroid cats)
• Excessive urination
• Increased appetite
• Weight loss (despite increased appetite)
• Hyperactivity
• Irritability or Aggression
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Voluminous fatty feces
• Panting, Heat intolerance
• Skin lesions, dry, greasy, matted coat

Secondary problems include high blood pressure and heart disease. The increased metabolic activity stimulated by the excess thyroid hormones cause an increased heart rate which leads to an enlargement of the heart and thickening of the heart walls. The increased pumping pressure of the heart leads to high blood pressure.

Hyperthyroidism is best addressed with a team approach that includes you, your veterinarian and a holistic veterinarian – either in your area or via phone consultation. Some cats are excellent candidates for allopathic treatments; some cats need a strictly holistic approach; many will do best with a combination of both approaches.

The holistic methods of treating hyperthyroidism include improving the overall health of the animal through improving diet and providing proper supplements, as well as more targeted treatments such as constitutional homeopathy or Chinese herbal remedies.

Feline Thyroid Disease & Pop Top Can Pet Foods..

Also Linked To Chemical Flame Retardants

 

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the
way its animals are treated."
~ Gandhi