Signs Your Dog or Cat Has a Thyroid Disorder
The thyroid gland has a very important function in both dogs and cats: it provides hormones that help regulate their energy levels, growth, body temperature, body weight, and heart rate. If a dog’s or cat’s thyroid glands produce either too little or too many hormones, they will begin to experience complications with their overall health. It is very common for dogs and cats to develop thyroid issues, especially as they reach later stages in life. Thankfully, thyroid issues aren’t typically fatal and can be treated in most cases, but the symptoms of thyroid issues are often subtle and develop slowly, so it is important to know what to look out for.
Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism
Dogs and cats experience thyroid issues very differently. It is more common for dogs to develop Hypothyroidism, while it is more common for cats to develop Hyperthyroidism. The difference between these two disorders has to do with how much of those important hormones the thyroid glands are producing. Hypothyroidism in dogs occurs when the thyroid glands are not producing enough hormones, and Hyperthyroidism in cats occurs when the thyroid glands are producing too many hormones. While this may occur due to other illnesses or complications, it is very rare for dogs to develop Hyperthyroidism or for cats to develop Hypothyroidism.
Symptoms
Because Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism are exact opposites of each other, most of the symptoms also reflect this. Some dogs and cats, however, may experience similar symptoms despite this. Here are the most common symptoms to look out for if you suspect that your dog or cat has a thyroid issue:
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Hypothyroidism (Dogs): |
Hyperthyroidism (Cats) |
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Lethargy Uninterested in exercise or playing Weight gain without a change in appetite Cold intolerance Skin and coat issues (shedding, hair loss)loss) Vomiting or diarrhea |
More energy than usual |
Treatment
The exact causes for Hypothyroidism in dogs and Hyperthyroidism in cats are mostly unknown, but in some cases may be due to autoimmune or immune disorders, some types of cancer, and a predisposition to the disorder by genetics or breed. The good news, however, is that both are easily diagnosed and treatable with the help of your vet.
Petwell Supply carries great supplements designed specifically for Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism. Natural Wonder’s TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Herbs) Food Drops are designed to aid your dog’s thyroid glands in producing more hormones. Natural Wonder’s Thyropaws Food Drops are designed to reduce the hormone production in cats with overactive thyroid glands.
- Vanessa Rances