Feline Thyroid Disorders
Our homeopathic vets have helped many of our customers heal their felines thyroid while on the raw diet whereas regular drugs have not. Please get a homeopathic vet consultation to the care for your feline or dogs health problem and increase their chance of recovery.
The feline thyroid gland produces hormones that affect the feline body’s metabolism, growth and development. The two most important feline hormones are tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine or T4) and triodothyronine (T3). There are two conditions caused by a dysfunctional feline thyroid gland – hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is more common in felines and is caused by an overactive thyroid gland with the resulting overproduction of hormones. Feline 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.
Feline Hyperthyroidism
Feline Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed so often in felines that it has practically become an epidemic. It is rarely seen in dogs. It is more common in older felines, but may be seen in younger felines 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 felines 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 feline hypothyroidism is the best approach through proper diet ( a homemade raw meat cat food diet,) and daily holistic 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 felines)
- 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 feline high blood pressure and feline heart disease. The increased metabolic activity stimulated by the excess feline 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.
Feline Hyperthyroidism is best addressed with a team approach that includes you and your holistic veterinarian – either in your area or via phone consultation. Many felines are excellent candidates for homeopathic treatments.
The holistic methods of treating feline hyperthyroidism include improving the overall health of the animal through improving diet (a homemade raw meat cat food diet,) and providing proper holistic and natural supplements, as well as more targeted treatments such as constitutional homeopathy or Chinese herbal remedies. See our Veterinarians page for a phone consult today.
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