AffectedAnimals:
This is a common disease of older cats, with an average age of 13 years and a general range of four to 20 years. Cats of all breeds and both sexes can be affected.

Overview:
Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common hormonal abnormality and is a common disease of aging cats. Hyperthyroidism is a feline disorder affecting multiple body systems due to an overabundance of the thyroid hormone, which increases the metabolism. Because of this increase, the cat's body systems function at an accelerated rate that it may not be able to sustain. As a result, problems with the heart, gastrointestinal tract and kidneys may occur; weight loss, hyperactivity, and increased appetite are classic signs of the disease.

1. Normal Thyroid Gland
2. Parathyroid Gland
3. Parathyroid Gland
4. Enlarged Thyroid Gland

Routine laboratory tests will diagnose hyperthyroidism, which can be treated very successfully through medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine therapy. Cats with severe complications of the disease may not respond well to treatment.