Hyperthyroidism and Hyperadrenocorticism in Cats

Endocrine disorders including hyperthyroidism and Cushings syndrome cause significant welfare impacts in middle-aged and older cats.

Key Facts

Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrine disease in cats over 10 years old
Untreated hyperthyroidism causes chronic weight loss, hypertension, cardiac changes, and anxiety
Radioactive iodine treatment is curative for hyperthyroidism with minimal welfare impact
Cushings syndrome (hyperadrenocorticism) is rare in cats but causes skin fragility and muscle weakness
Treatment options include medication, surgery, and radioactive iodine depending on condition and cat

Welfare Considerations

Endocrine disorders in cats cause prolonged suffering when undiagnosed or inadequately treated. Hyperthyroid cats experience rapid weight loss despite increased appetite, hypertension causing eye and brain damage, and cardiac hypertrophy. The chronic nature of these conditions means months or years of welfare compromise before diagnosis in some cases. Regular thyroid palpation and blood screening in cats over 7 years old enables early diagnosis and treatment before significant welfare harm occurs.

What You Can Do

Schedule twice-yearly blood screens for cats over 7 years old
Ask your vet to palpate the thyroid at every senior cat examination
Monitor weight and appetite changes in older cats vigilantly
Discuss treatment options including radioactive iodine with your veterinarian