How to Detect Hypothyroidism in Cats

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Look for changes in eating habits. Weight loss, even when eating more than usual, can be a clear sign. The thyroid is working overtime but it is not giving enough nutrients to the cat's body. This can cause a cat to eat more and be hyperactive and remain thin.
Step 2:
Observe the coat. Cats tend to be very neat and clean animals. If the coat appears unwashed or if you notice your cat stops bathing it can be a sign of hypothyroidism in cats. Another symptom is over-bathing to the point of a thinning or balding of the fur.
Step 3:
Search for health signs. Owning a cat and being able to detect hypothyroidism in cats can be easier if you watch their health. Listen for heartbeats that are faster than normal, and watch to see if your cat gets winded easily. Some of these things could be glossed over by cat owners as their cat's age, but it could be more than just old age.
Step 4:
Watch for excess. When a cat eats and drinks excessively, it may be due to an over-active thyroid. Excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or aggression can also help you detect hypothyroidism in cats.
Step 5:
Get a blood test. Hypothyroidism in cats can be found by testing the blood. The vet will be able to detect hypothyroidism in cats through a blood test, and determine if it is another disease.

More Puppy Pages

How to Diagnose Giardia in a Cat

Instructions Step 1: Look for changes in your cat's feces, such as excessive amounts of mucus in watery or soft feces. Greasy, pale and foul smelling stools accompanied by acute, intermittent or chronic bouts of diarrhea are other signs of possible...

How to Diagnose Cancer Warning Signs in Cats

Instructions Step 1: Feel for abnormal swelling or an enlarging lump anywhere on the cat's body--especially around the abdomen and on the lymph nodes. Step 2: Notice any changes in eating and litter box behaviors, including a decrease in appetite or...

How to Introduce a New Cat to A Cat Home

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Cats Litter boxes Cat food and bowls Vaccinations Dewormer Good relations with health care professionals and members of your own household How to Introduce a New Cat to a Cat Home Step 1: Assess the health of the...

Instructions Step 1: Look for the signs of feline pancreatitis which may include: an increased heart rate, lethargy, depression, frequent urination, diarrhea, little or no appetite, weight loss and vomiting (although unlike with dogs less than 50 percent...

How to Know if a Cat Has Urinary Tract Disease

Instructions Step 1: Listen to your feline. Meowing excessively means something is wrong and you need to keep a close eye on your cat to figure out what it is. Step 2: Pay attention to your cat when it is grooming. Licking of its urinary opening usually...