Hyperthyroidism is a common and treatable condition in older cats that causes significant suffering when undiagnosed or poorly managed.
Hyperthyroidism causes chronic suffering in older cats through the physiological effects of excess thyroid hormone including muscle wasting, cardiovascular stress, and secondary hypertension. Early diagnosis through routine screening of older cats and appropriate treatment dramatically improves quality of life. Owner and veterinary awareness of this common condition is important for reducing the burden of undiagnosed disease.