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Start thryoid medicine?

Species: Cat
Breed: Domestic Short hair
Age: 8-11 years
Biscuit has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism (T4 > 7). He has lost 1 pound already but is still about 2 pounds overweight. He feels fine and is otherwise healthy. Should I wait to start treatment with tapazole until he gets to his goal weight? Or should I start treatment immeidiately?

Thanks


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

I can understand the logic here - it would be great to have Biscuit lose some weight. However, this is not a healthy way to do it.

I would definitely advise starting the thyroid medicine right away. When a cat is hyperthyroid, their metabolism speeds up dramatically. They have a very fast heart rate and their blood pressure increases.

If a cat has high blood pressure for too long they are at risk for getting serious heart problems and blood pressure issues. One very serious issue that cats can get when they have high blood pressure is a condition called retinal detachment which causes blindness that is usually permanent.

I have a friend who is hyperthyroid and she says that when her thyroid level is too high she just feels awful.

You may still find that Biscuit loses some weight even on thyroid medication, but not as quickly as without.

I hope he does well!

Dr. Marie.


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Disclaimer: Although Dr. Marie is a qualified veterinarian, the information found on this site is not meant to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. AskAVetQuestion.com and Dr. Marie do not accept any responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, death, or disease which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site. Do not use information found on this site for diagnosing or treating your pet. Anything you read here is for information only.

Customer reply:

Thank you. Very helpful.


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Dr. MarieDr. Marie is a veterinarian who practices in a busy animal hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. She created Ask A Vet Question as a resource for good, accurate veterinary advice online. Dr. Marie treats dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats. She has been a vet since 1999.

Is an online vet visit just as good as a trip to your veterinarian? No! But, many times, asking an online veterinarian a question can help save you money. While Dr. Marie can't officially diagnose your pet or prescribe medications, she can often advise you on whether a vet visit is necessary. You can also ask Dr. Marie for a second opinion on your pet's condition.