Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Risk factors linked to hyperthyroidism in older UK cats
By Wakeling, J et al.·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2009·Royal Veterinary College, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Risk factors for feline hyperthyroidism in the UK.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A study in London found that certain factors may increase the risk of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) in cats over eight years old. Cats that are non-purebred, eat a lot of wet food, especially fish, and are exposed to canned food are more likely to develop this condition. The research suggests that these risk factors are similar to those found in cats from other countries. If you notice symptoms like increased thirst, weight loss, or hyperactivity in your older cat, it might be worth discussing these findings with your veterinarian.
People also search for: cat hyperthyroidism symptoms · risk factors for cat thyroid problems · wet food and cat health · non-purebred cat health issues
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Previous studies of cats in the USA and New Zealand have identified a number of risk factors for the development of hyperthyroidism including feeding of canned cat food and being non-purebred. The objective of this study was to examine these and other risk factors in cats from London, UK. METHODS: A questionnaire-based case-control study of hyperthyroidism in cats greater than eight years of age was undertaken. Cases and controls were recruited from two groups of first opinion clinics in London, UK (five locations in total). The two-page questionnaire investigated details of lifestyle, diet and exposure to environmental chemicals. Data analysis included multivariable analysis of risk factors using binary logistic regression. RESULTS: One hundred and nine hyperthyroid cats and 196 control cats were surveyed. Increasing age, non-pure breed, use of a litter box, more than 50 per cent wet food in the diet, a diet that included fish and exposure to food in a can were identified as risk factors for the development of hyperthyroidism using multivariable analysis. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Risk factors for hyperthyroidism in cats from the UK appear similar to those of other countries. Exposure to food packaged in a can was identified as the major risk factor for the development of hyperthyroidism.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19689668/