Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Hyperthyroidism in Cats
- Journal:
- Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
- Year:
- 2012
- Authors:
- Peterson, Mark
- Affiliation:
- Animal Endocrine Clinic, 21 West 100th Street, New York 10025, USA · United States
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Hyperthyroidism is a common health issue in cats, especially those over 10 years old, with more than 10% of senior cats likely to develop it. This condition happens when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, but the exact causes are still unclear, and there’s no known way to prevent it. Factors like certain chemicals in the environment or in cat food and water may contribute to the problem. The review discusses various risk factors and suggests that cat owners can take steps to potentially lower the chances of their cats developing thyroid tumors and hyperthyroidism. Overall, while the condition is serious, there are ways to help manage the risks.
Abstract
Practical relevance: Since first being reported in the late 1970s, there has been a dramatic increase in the prevalence of hyperthyroidism in cats. It is now recognized worldwide as the most common feline endocrine disorder. Patient group: Hyperthyroidism is an important cause of morbidity in cats older than 10 years of age. It is estimated that over 10% of all senior cats will develop the disorder. Clinical challenges: Despite its frequency, the underlying cause(s) of this common disease is/are not known, and no one has suggested a means to prevent the disorder. Because of the multiple risk factors that have been described for feline hyperthyroidism, it is likely that more than one factor is involved in its pathogenesis. Continuous, lifelong exposure to environmental thyroid disruptor chemicals or goitrogens in food or water, acting together in an additive or synergistic manner, may first lead to euthyroid goiter and then to autonomous adenomatous hyperplasia, thyroid adenoma and hyperthyroidism. Evidence base: This review draws on published research studies to summarize the available evidence about the risk factors for feline hyperthyroidism. Based on the known goitrogens that may be present in the cat’s food, drinking water or environment, it proposes measures that cat owners can implement that might prevent, or reduce the prevalence of, thyroid tumors and hyperthyroidism in their cats.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612x12464462