What are the side effects of methimazole in cats?
Methimazole may produce side effects in cats including depression, vomiting and lack of appetite….Signs of hyperthyroidism can include:
- weight loss.
- increased appetite.
- increased activity and restlessness.
- aggressive or “cranky” behavior.
- a poor hair coat.
- a fast heart rate.
- increased water drinking.
- increased urination.
How long does it take for thyroid medicine to work in cats?
In cats, oral methimazole is rapidly absorbed, with: An oral bioavailability of 93% Maximal serum concentrations seen within 1.5 hours. Mean half-life of 3.12 hours and serum concentrations at 24 hours—after a single oral 5-mg dose—of 21.7 ± 28.9 ng/mL.
How long do side effects of methimazole last in cats?
The most common side effects include vomiting, anorexia, and tiredness, and usually occur within the first three months of treatment. Other, less common side effects such as gastrointestinal effects and mild changes in your pet’s blood cell counts are usually temporary and resolve with time.
Are cats in pain with hyperthyroidism?
In addition, hyperthyroidism can cause hypertension or high blood pressure, and result in damage to the eyes, kidneys, and brain. Cats with untreated hyperthyroidism can also endure pain and a lower quality of life due to the symptoms of the disease.
Do cats with hyperthyroidism live long lives?
Most cats that are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and are treated only with medical management will live an average of 3-5 years before dying of either heart failure or kidney failure. But, those 3-5 years can be good quality years.
Do cats with hyperthyroidism suffer?
This is because the cat’s heart must work harder to match the state of its overactive metabolism. This means that in addition to years of dietary distress, general restlessness and nervousness, and hair loss, a cat whose feline hyperthyroidism is untreated can suffer from heart problems that can be fatal.
Can cats recover from hyperthyroidism?
The good news is that the prognosis for feline hyperthyroidism is not all bad. In fact, when treated early and effectively, many cats can fully recover and have normal thyroid activity restored.
Why do hyperthyroid cats yowl?
Signs of anxiety in a cat – including pacing, yowling for no apparent reason, and restlessness – are a common symptom of feline hyperthyroidism. This is due to increased stimulation in the nervous system which is a common occurrence in cats with feline hyperthyroidism.
What are the effects of untreated thyroid disease in cats?
If hyperthyroidism in cats is left untreated, it can cause serious problems and even be fatal. For instance, thyroid hormones cause the heart to beat faster and contract more strongly. Over time, this can impair the normal functioning of the heart and trigger cardiac arrest.
What is the best thyroid medication for cats?
Methimazole is the most commonly prescribed medication for hyperthyroidism in cats. It is an anti-thyroid medication that comes in tablet form. It works to restore normal thyroid levels by interfering with iodine, which is an element that enables the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.
What are the signs of thyroid problems in cats?
The most common thyroid problem in cats is hyperthyroidism and involves the overproduction or over-release of the thyroid hormone T-4 in the bloodstream. Signs are weight loss and increased appetite.
How can I give my Cat her daily thyroid medicine?
Give your cat oral therapy. If your veterinarian has determined that oral therapy is the best way to treat your cat’s hyperthyroidism, then you will need to give your cat a medication called methimazole. It usually needs to be given twice daily.