How to Care for Cats With a Hyperthyroid Condition
- 1). Administer medication designed to decreased thyroid production to your cat. Many veterinarians prescribe the medication methimazole to control the hyperthyroidism. However, other treatment options are available, including surgery to remove gland nodules, radioactive iodine treatment or chemical ablation. Typically, the latter options cure the hyperthyroidism and the cat does not need further treatment. Medication only manages the disease and is usually a life-long requirement.
- 2). Take your cat to the veterinarian often to monitor its thyroid levels. Cats placed on hyperthyroidism therapy require regular bloodwork to ensure their thyroid levels are normal. Bloodwork is typically needed when the cat is first placed on medication, then every three to six months once the levels are regulated. Thyroid medication also has the potential to cause kidney issues; therefore, regular bloodwork is needed to monitor their function, as well. The veterinarian will likely require bloodwork to check the cat's thyroid levels after it has received surgery, radioactive iodine treatment or chemical ablation to make sure the treatments worked.
- 3). Monitor your cat's behavior. Watch your cat closely to look for signs that the hyperthyroidism is being treated accurately. For instance, keep an eye on the cat's food intake, energy levels and body condition. If the cat begins to eat more, lose weight or become irritable or hyper once on the medication or after the treatment, the hyperthyroidism could be acting up again. If you suspect this is the case, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet may need to adjust the cat's medication levels or it is possible the surgery, radiation treatment or chemical ablation weren't successful.
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