What Causes Feline Hyperthyroidism?
Most cases are caused by adenomatous hyperplasia of the thyroid gland. A benign adenoma (tumor) develops in the thyroid gland. This change in the gland probably has a nutritional, environmental, or genetic etiology which is still unknown. The result is uncontrolled production of thyroid hormones, L-thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). In healthy cats, the amount of thyroid hormone in the blood is regulated by the pituitary gland through a negative feedback mechanism involving thytrotropin (TSH). But in hyperthyroid cats, this normal endocrine regulation goes awry, and the gland continually pours large amounts of thyroid hormones into the blood. The resultant condition is hyperthyroxinemia and life-threatening hyperthyroidism. If you have questions regarding the treatment of Feline Hyperthyroidism and how we can help your cat, visit the contacts page and fill out the Inquiry Form and a representative will contact you.
