Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common hormonal disorder in older cats and causes significant welfare problems if untreated, but responds well to effective management.
Feline hyperthyroid welfare illustrates the importance of early detection and treatment in senior companion animal care. The hyperthyroid state causes chronic physiological distress: elevated heart rate, weight loss despite increased appetite, muscle wasting, and anxiety-like behavioural changes all reduce quality of life. Hypertensive changes can cause sudden blindness from retinal detachment. The condition is very manageable with multiple effective treatment options.