Feline hypothyroidism is not a problem that wild cats suffer with. But it is an increasing problem with domestic cats.
The thyroid gland, situated in the neck, is stimulated to produce its hormones by the pituitary gland, which releases TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid fails to produce enough of the hormones T3 triodothyronine and T4 thyroxine. TSH levels are usually insufficient, leading to low levels of T3 and T4.
The thyroid is a vital gland and is responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism. This means that the whole body is affected and often other diseases are diagnosed before it is realised that the thyroid is the problem.
The most common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- low spirits or depression
- irritability
- tiredness, fatigue
- weakness
- dizziness
- weight gain
- coarse, dry fur and/or fur loss
- dry skin and/or itchy skin
- constipation
- muscle cramps
- change of temperature tolerance
- bone problems similar to arthritis
- litter tray accidents
Hypothyroidism is considered to be caused by Hashimoto’s disease, which is an autoimmune disease. That doesn’t really tell you very much other than the condition is systemic and serious.
What you really need to know are the causes which you have control over. Then you can take proactive measures.
The veterinary answer to feline hypothyroidism is to medicate with hormone replacements. While this undoubtedly can produce the required results in the short term, it is not curing the problem. It is not dealing with the cause. This means the condition may worsen and/or other problems are likely to emerge, in time. An autoimmune disease must be taken seriously to get the best results.
There are various factors which contribute to feline hypothyroidism and all of them suppress or inhibit the immune system. The common causes are commercial cat food, fluoride in the water and medication.
Commercial cat food is produced by corporations. Corporations are far more interested in their bottom line than in the health of your cat. Short cuts are the order of the day. Cheap food from questionable sources are normal practice. Little head is taken for the species requirements.
Pretty packets, clever words and addictive substances keep you feeling you are doing the right thing. Your cat appears to enjoy the food. However, be assured it is nutrient deficient and toxic.
By feeding your cat an evolutionary diet, they can be cured of this troublesome condition, without the need for any medication.
Aluminium fluoride, the common form of fluoride in scheme water, mimics TSH, but it doesn’t have the same result; T3 and T4 are not produced. By providing your cat with rain or filtered water, rather than that straight from the tap, may be instrumental in curing the problem.
All veterinary medication works by suppressing the immune system. It tends to palliate immediately, giving you (and your vet) the erroneous feeling that they are curative. Often the emerging problems are not connected.
By changing to holistic health care, you can keep your cat in a far better state of health. Diseases such as feline hypothyroidism can be relegated to the past, to the bad old days.
