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Hyperthyroidism Gold Support Kit

Natural Support for Hyperthyroidism in Cats & Pets

USD $95.90
Hyperthyroidism Gold Support Kit USD $95.90 Add to Cart

Vet Tech Rounds: Hyperthyroidism And Hypothyroidism in Pets

Vet Talks 4 min read
overweight bull dog laying down panting and an underweight cat sitting in the sun.

The difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism in pets can be very confusing. But, don’t worry, we’re here to help. The terms for describing both conditions are very similar and can cause a mix-up between the two. Both affect the thyroid but work in opposite ways. One way that I learned to remember the meaning for each condition in veterinary school, was that HYPO always refers to something being slow while HYPER always means that something is fast or overactive. For example, exactly how we would describe a kid after eating candy: hyperactive!

Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid hormone also known as T3 controls the body’s metabolic rate. In other words, it will decide how hard and how fast each cell will have to work to perform its function. The actual thyroid glands do not produce T3, they produce another form that is called T4. The different tissues in the body will absorb T4 and they turn it into T3.

Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in cats and does not affect dogs as often.

Hyperthyroidism is caused by growth from the thyroid gland that causes an overproduction of T4. As mentioned before, hyper means that things are moving at a faster pace so hyperthyroidism will cause your pet to lose a lot of weight, excessive thirst, restlessness, excessive eating, and urinating.

It is important to note that hyperthyroidism is a common condition in cats and does not affect dogs as often. Some of the symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism are:

  • Weight loss
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Heart problems
  • Excessive drinking/urination
  • Increase in appetite

As mentioned, hyperthyroidism is not found commonly in dogs but can be caused by hypothyroidism medication. This type of medication contains a synthetic form of thyroxine and can lead to hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism can be diagnosed with blood testing that will measure the levels of the thyroid hormones. Other blood samples may be taken for general testing in case of a secondary issue. It can be controlled with the use of the right medication. However, if it’s a tumor causing the problem, surgery may be required, and chemotherapy can also be an option.

grey cat lying on a white and black dots mini sofa. Hyperthyroidism And Hypothyroidism in Pets

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is more common in dogs than cats.

Hypothyroidism affects mainly canine companions. The thyroid glands fail to produce enough T4 and T3 hormones. This is generally caused by one of two things: lymphocytic thyroiditis or idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy. Lymphocytic thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition, and this means that the immune system attacks the thyroid, because it thinks it is abnormal. Unfortunately, we do not know why this occurs, but evidence shows that it is a heritable condition, therefore, the cause is for genetic reasons.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism are basically opposites to the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Hypo is referring to everything slowing down, so some of the typical symptoms associated with it are:

  • Lethargy
  • Weight gain and obesity
  • Increased shedding
  • Hair thinning and hair loss
  • Reproductive problems
  • Dull appearance
  • Thickening of the skin

Hypothyroidism is tested by doing a total thyroxin level (TT4). Like the test for hyperthyroidism, this will measure the thyroid hormone level in the blood. A definitive diagnosis is made by doing a free T4 by equilibrium dialysis. This will measure the levels of thyroxin and if the results show low levels then it is most likely hypothyroidism.

Neither of the above conditions has cures but both can be controlled using prescribed medication. The drug given is a thyroid replacement hormone and must be administered for the rest of your pet’s life. The dose will depend on your pet’s weight and thyroid levels. Sometimes the dose may need to be adjusted over time.

Hypothyroidism is a slow-developing condition and can often be misdiagnosed.

fat dog lying on the floor looking sad. Hyperthyroidism And Hypothyroidism in Pets

Natural Support

NHV offers different kits that can help support hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism in pets This includes supplements:

Hyperthyroidism Kit:

  • Resthyro – Is used to help support pets with hyperthyroidism. This supplement can help with regulating appetite. It helps to support the thyroid gland and control thyroid hormone production. It also helps to relieve tension and irritability. It reduces thirst and urination, supports heart function and kidney function.
  • Turmeric – Is used in the kit for hyperthyroidism to help support the other organs affected by this condition. Turmeric supports the heart, helps with digestion, eases discomfort, improves skin and coat, and supports liver function.

Hypothyroidism Kit:

  • Thyro-Up – Helps to support pets suffering from hypothyroidism. It also helps to maintain a healthy thyroid function, supports balanced hormone levels, helps to elevate the energy levels, promotes healthy skin and coat, and supports weight management and metabolism.
  • Multi Essentials – This comes in the hypothyroidism kit, too. Its aim is to stimulate metabolism, also promote healthy skin and coat, aids with digestion helps reducing fatigue, and increases energy levels, as well as helping to fill nutritional voids.

If you have more questions about how to support your pet with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, you can reach out to our pet experts. We are always happy to help.

Holly RVN

Holly RVN

Holly graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing from the Athlone Institute of Technology in Ireland. She also completed a 1-year Animal Care course. Worked in small Animal Veterinary practice for 3+ years before moving on to working in the Equine Industry. Holly is passionate about animals and spends much of her spare time going on long walks with her Boston Terrier, Lloyd.

Published: June 19, 2020

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