When To Put A Cat To Sleep With Hyperthyroidism
I am a veterinarian and have seen many cats with hyperthyroidism. I understand that it can be difficult to decide when to put a cat down, but it is an important decision.
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. Hyperthyroidism affects around 10% of cats, and is most common in middle-aged female cats.
The thyroid hormone controls metabolism, and when it’s produced in excessive amounts, it can cause serious problems for your cat’s health. The symptoms depend on how severe the hyperthyroidism is. In some cases, there may be no outward signs other than weight loss or an increased appetite; however most cats will show at least some signs of illness due to their overactive thyroid glands:
The symptoms of Feline Hyperthyroidism
The symptoms of Feline Hyperthyroidism include:
- Weight loss, increased appetite and thirst, increased urination, diarrhea, vomiting and hair loss may all be signs that your cat has a thyroid disorder. Some cats also show weakness as a symptom of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland).
- Your cat could be panting excessively due to hyperthyroidism or heatstroke if it’s too hot outside.
If you think your cat is experiencing one or more of the above symptoms then you should take him/her to the vet so they can run some tests on him/her.
The diagnosis for Feline Hyperthyroidism
A diagnosis for Feline Hyperthyroidism is often made through a combination of blood tests, ultrasound and biopsy. The veterinarian will take a sample of your cat’s thyroid gland, which is located in the neck behind their Adam’s apple. This can be done with an ultrasound guided needle or by using a scalpel to remove some cells from their thyroid gland.
Quality of Life
- Quality of life is important.
- The cat may be in constant discomfort, suffering from pain, and unable to cope with its symptoms.
- The cat may be depressed or showing signs of depression.
Only you can decide when to put a cat to sleep.
Only you can decide when the time is right for your cat. The decision to put a pet down for any reason is never easy, but it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism as well as the diagnosis and quality-of-life factors that may affect your cat’s prognosis. In addition, there are many online resources available through organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association that can help you understand what options are available to manage this condition and make sure that no stone has been left unturned before making this difficult choice.
As a cat owner, it’s important to know the signs of hyperthyroidism and be able to recognize them. The condition is treatable, but if left unchecked, it can lead to serious health issues or even death for your furry friend. If you think your cat might have this condition then contact your veterinarian immediately so that they can do a blood test and determine whether or not treatment is necessary.
