And They Lived Happily Ever After Page 3

Love, Loss, and Loving Again Page 4

Meet FFR Volunteer Shirley Brown Page 5

Workshop: Learn How to Make a Cat Scratching Post Page 6

President's Message Page 7

Featured Feline Page 7

Our Donors Page 7

FFR Update Page 7

By Laurie Rich

Feline hyperthyroidism is one of the most common diseases in middle-aged and older cats. It is a multi-system disorder caused by an increase in thyroid hormones produced by an enlarged thyroid gland.

The thyroid glands are two flat lobes located on either side of your cat's windpipe. These lobes should lie flat. If they are prominent, or can be felt, this indicates abnormalities.

The thyroid affects all parts of a cat's body and organs. It controls the metabolic rate of the body, dictating how fast (or slow) the body functions. The thyroid produces two hormones, known as T3 and T4, which circulate throughout the body and affect sensors on the body's organs. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones.

A cat with hyperthyroidism will show numerous symptoms, as all bodily functions are affected. In addition to enlarged thyroid glands, the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are hearty (even ravenous) eating but with weight loss and loss of muscle mass; hyperactivity; and gastrointestinal difficulties including vomiting and diarrhea. Increased water consumption and urination are also common. Cardiovascular symptoms include increased heart rate, arrhythmia, and congestive heart failure.

To detect the disease, your veterinarian will order a thorough blood test and a thyroid hormone (T4) level. Your vet will also evaluate the health of the other major organs, including the kidneys, liver, and heart. Chest x-rays and cardiac ultrasound may reveal hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the muscular walls of the heart's left ventricle; see "The Importance of Annual Exams" in the May 2005 issue of The Kitty Scoop).

Once hyperthyroidism has been diagnosed, there are several treatment options. These include daily treatment with thyroid medication, injection treatment with radioactive iodine, or surgical removal of the thyroid gland.

All three of these treatments can be successful. Which one is best for your cat depends on a combination of factors, including your cat's age and other concurrent conditions.

In older cats, this disease is common enough that many veterinarians consider routine screening to be necessary. Because of the potential for numerous secondary complications, such as heart disease, early diagnosis is important.

The best way to ensure that your cat is diagnosed for hyperthyroidism (or any other disease) is by annual physical examination. Generally, it is recommended that your cat receive a physical exam every year between the ages of 1 and 9, and twice a year beginning with 10 years of age. If your cat is 10 years or older, consider asking your vet about tests for hyperthyroidism.

For additional information about feline hyperthyroidism, visit http://cats.about.com/cs/healthissues/p/hyperthyroid.htm.

< PREVIOUS PAGE . . . . NEXT PAGE >