Feline hyperthyroidism and chronic renal failure (CRF) are common diseases in senior cats. Because several common diseases of older cats-diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal cancer, and chronic kidney failure- share some of the clinical signs of hyperthyroidism, it is important to run a series of tests to determine what your kitty needs. These can develop as cats age, and if left untreated, can lead to a series of other health problems.

Although relatively small, the thyroid gland plays a huge role in our body, influencing the function of many of the body’s most important organs, including the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and skin. Ensuring that the thyroid gland is healthy and functioning properly is vitally important to the body’s overall well-being.

HOW CAN I HELP MY HYPERTHYROID KITTY?

You have numerous choices for treating hyperthyroid cats. Which therapy you choose depends on some factors such as the age and health of your kitty, cost, and access to proper therapies. For pet parents, this decision involves understanding treatments options and such factors as your cat’s age and the recovery process.

With appropriate treatment, hyperthyroidism generally has a good prognosis. This senior cat, Chibi, had her thyroid gland removed earlier this year. A thyroidectomy involves removing the abnormal thyroid tissue. Chibi’s mom, Sue had a close eye on her fur kid’s condition and has been in and out of the vet’s office this year. When she first contacted us in May, it was not long after Chibi had her procedure. In that time she had regained some of the weight that was lost from her previous hyperthyroid days and recovering from surgery.

It is a story not fraught with its own set of ups and downs, but sweet Chibi forges on with her blend of NHV supplements. We want to provide this furry little fighter the proper support for her happy days ahead.

Senior girl, Chibi, shortly after receiving her first batch of NHV supplements: 

Hey there. We got the supplements. Chibi had a thyroidectomy today & her front tooth (fang) was removed. She has FRL so it couldn’t be saved. Her thyroid was fused so no clear left & right. The vets have never seen one like that before. Her parathyroid has hopefully got a good blood supply to allow it to do its job and keep the blood calcium levels. Chibi has a catheter in it until Saturday as if she crashes (due to calcium levels) they want to be able to stabilize her quickly. She has only been home for 1 hr.

Our team of Pet Experts recommended a few different herbs for Chibi:  Old Timer to help with her senior joints, Turmeric for overall health, and Tripsy & Milk Thistle for maintaining kidney health. These blends contain gentle, yet effective herbs to help relieve the symptoms of  kidney failure, restore health, and remove toxins from vital organs affected by medication and the environment.

Sue’s update a couple months later:

Chibi has put on 1.4 kg since the thyroidectomy. Probably a bit much actually but I’m not concerned. She’s had blood tests 3 weeks ago. She’s got elevated creantinine levels so stage 1 renal. But we were expecting that. We’ve tried renal wet food, no joy. But she eats renal biscuits, has done for months . We feed her wet food but biscuits are renal. Now what I did is put renal biscuits on her wet food every meal, with her NHV. We’re increasing the Tripsy dosage.

Renal failure can develop, or become unmasked after treatment of hyperthyroidism. This means that it is not uncommon for them to co-exist in the body. Treatment of hyperthyroidism helps to preserve remaining kidney function. That is why it is important to keep on top of kidney levels. Chibi stays ahead of her condition, by way of regular vet visits.

Summer, 2018

They’re doing well. Added the old timer to Chibi’s meals. Not full dosage as I’m trying to wean her onto 3 medicines now. But she’s eating the food. Just not eating all the food so doesn’t get full dosage. But we’re getting some meds in her day and night.

October 2018

Hello. We had some good and bad news today on Chibi. Her blood test showed her kidney values reduced and liver working good. The vet said her kidneys were 235 a week ago, now 165. But her blood sugar very high and red blood cell count lower.

This meant onset of diabetes. Diabetes is often a result of kidney disease or a side effect of prolonged steroid usage.

Latest update:

Ok test results in. Chibi was a champ at the vet, let them do ultrasound with no hassle or sedation. Nothing suspicious to be worried about. But confirmed diabetes.

Navigating a diagnosis can be daunting, but our Pet Experts are happy to help provide support and answer any questions you may have– no matter what condition your senior little one is dealing with. We can make recommendations based on your cat’s individual needs, condition, and medical history. A diagnosis is not the end of a full and happy life.

Chibi still loves to jump, climb, monkey around with her brother Leroy, and enjoy all her favorite activities in her world. Just like the changing seasons, Chibi’s toughness, ferocity, and ability to rolls with the ebbs and flows of her health condition inspires us. 🐱

Follow this lovable feline, and her fur brother. We thank Sue, for allowing us to share her progress and letting us be a part of this lovely family.

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