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Hypothyroidism in cats occurs when the thyroid gland produces too few hormones. It is very uncommon for felines to develop this health problem. The condition will significantly reduce your cat’s quality of life, but it isn’t fatal. There are various reasons why your cat could develop feline hypothyroidism.

Causes

Ironically, hypothyroidism in cats is usually caused by medical treatments for hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism in felines results when there are too many hormones produced by the thyroid gland.
Cats with this condition are treated with surgery or radioactive iodine to remove all or most thyroid tissue. This causes a dramatic decrease in hormones, which results in hypothyroidism. Two other common causes include tumors affecting the gland and lack of iodine in the diet.

Symptoms

If your cat develops this condition, he will have an increased appetite and thirst. Weight gain can also become a problem. You might also notice your cat grooming himself excessively. His hair may be dry and itchy and eventually start to fall out. Some cats also appear lethargic.

Diagnosis

A blood test is needed to diagnose this condition. This is needed in order for the vet to see how much thyroid hormone is circulating in the bloodstream. Urine tests are also useful sometimes.

Treatment

Although cat hypothyroidism isn’t fatal, it still needs to be treated. It will significantly reduce your cat’s quality of life as mentioned earlier in this article. Fortunately, this condition is relatively easy to treat. If it was caused by medications given to treat hyperthyroidism, your cat will have to stop taking them. This disease can also be treated via supplemental hormones. This medication will have to be taken orally once or twice a day.

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