A cat’s thyroid, a gland with two lobes in the shape of a butterfly, is located in its neck. Feline hypothyroidism occurs when this gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. This condition rarely occurs in cats. However, cats frequently experience feline hyperthyroidism which occurs when the gland produces too many hormones. Hypothyroidism will reduce your cat’s quality of life, but it isn’t fatal.

Causes

Feline hypothyroidism is generally caused by surgery or other medical treatments. The most common cause is surgery for feline hyperthyroidism in which the glands are removed. Radioactive iodine, which is also used to treat hyperthyroidism, can also lead to the condition. Feline hypothyroidism can also be caused by thyroid tumors of if your cat doesn’t have enough iodine in its diet.

Symptoms

Cats with feline hypothyroidism will show an increased appetite and thirst and will start to gain weight. You may also notice that your cat grooms itself excessively. A cat with feline hypothyroidism will also have an extremely dry, itchy coat and the hair may eventually fall out. In addition to these symptoms, your cat will likely appear dull and lethargic.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose feline hypothyroidism, the veterinarian will have to perform a blood test and a complete blood count. It is also necessary to run tests to check for levels of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. Some veterinarians will also test your cats urine.

Treatment

If your cat is diagnosed with feline hypothyroidism, you will be happy to know that it’s a relatively easy condition to treat. If the condition was caused by drugs to treat hyperthyroidism, they will need to be discontinued. Also, the vet will prescribe supplemental hormones that have to be taken orally one or two times each day.