Thyroid disease in dogs and cats

The thyroid gland affects all tissues and organs. Disorders of its functioning are widespread in four-legged friends of man. Diseases of this endocrine organ are mainly manifested in aging animals. Having identified the problem in time, the veterinarian in Kyiv will not allow further deterioration of the pet's endocrine health and will even be able to improve his quality of life.

Hypothyroidism in dogs

Dogs suffer from hypothyroidism - decreased thyroid function. The body is destroyed by its own immune cells. Dogs with hypothyroidism may have the following symptoms:

• Reluctance to play and execute commands.
• Frequent sleep.
• The appearance of excess weight.
• Low resistance to cold.
• Lack of heat (in bitches).
• Testicular atrophy (in dogs).
• Dermatitis.
• Foci of alopecia.
• Poor condition of the coat.

Destruction of thyroid tissue can be avoided if the pathology is detected at an early stage. To do this, we recommend bringing the dog to the annual medical examination and donate its blood for thyroid hormones, especially if the animal is over 6 years old.

Hyperthyroidism in cats

In cats, the reverse condition is registered - hyperthyroidism - excess production of thyroid hormones. The cause is often bilateral adenomatous hyperplasia of the thyroid gland. Among the etiological factors of hyperthyroidism - autoimmune processes, genetic predisposition, infectious diseases, environmental factors, nutrition. The disease can be suspected on the following grounds:

• Weight loss with increased appetite.
• Muscular dystrophy.
• Constant thirst.
• Deterioration of wool quality.
• Increased excitability.

If your cat or dog has the above symptoms, contact the Animal Clinic immediately. Differential diagnosis allows to detect the disease correctly, excluding other diseases of endocrine and non-endocrine nature with similar symptoms. It involves a comprehensive approach: analysis of the clinical picture, hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as indicators of TT4 and TSH, ultrasound of the thyroid gland.