Most common hormonal disorder in cats. Diagnosis costs $100-$300, treatment runs $20-$35/month for medication or $1,500-$2,200 for radioactive iodine cure. Overwhelmingly affects senior cats over 10. Overactive thyroid floods the body with hormones, causing weight loss despite ravenous appetite.
Benign growth (adenoma) on thyroid glands produces excess hormone. Environmental triggers studied: flame retardants, BPA in canned food. Affects 10% of senior cats over 10.
Weight loss despite increased appetite; eats more but loses weight. Increased thirst, urination, hyperactivity. Vomiting, diarrhea, poor coat, rapid heart rate. Some cats develop neck lump.
Blood panel measuring T4 ($50-$150) is primary test. Borderline results: free T4 ($80-$150). Complete bloodwork ($100-$200) checks kidney/liver; can mask kidney disease. Average $100-$300.
Methimazole ($20-$35/month) controls but doesn't cure-lifelong. Radioactive iodine (I-131) cures 95%+ with one treatment ($1,500-$2,200). Prescription diet (Hill's y/d): $50-$80/month. Surgery: $800-$1,500.
Medication route: $240-$420/year ongoing. Radioactive iodine: one-time $1,500-$2,200 plus diagnosis.
Almost exclusively affects cats over 10. Indoor cats may be at slightly higher risk due to environmental exposure to flame retardants.
Well-managed with medication or cured with radioactive iodine. Most cats return to normal weight and behavior. Excellent prognosis with treatment.
No proven prevention. Regular blood work for cats over 7 catches it early. Limit exposure to flame retardants. Annual thyroid screening recommended for senior cats.
02/04
Medication route: $240-$420/year ongoing.
Most comprehensive policies cover diagnosis and treatment, including radioactive iodine therapy. Standard 14-day illness waiting period applies. Blood panels, medications, and monitoring typically covered.
Hyperthyroidism primarily affects senior cats. Many owners don't insure until symptoms appear-too late. Any elevated T4 in vet records before enrollment means thyroid claims denied as pre-existing. Enroll young and healthy.
Medication costs $240-$420/year indefinitely. Radioactive iodine ($1,500-$2,200) cures in one treatment. Insurance may cover both. I-131 often pays for itself in 2-3 years vs. ongoing meds. Check if policy covers specialty treatments.
Some policies have age enrollment limits or higher premiums for senior cats. Few insurers accept cats over 10-14 years old-exactly when hyperthyroidism peaks. Check enrollment age limits carefully.
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