Ask the Vet: Treatment Options for Feline Hyperthyroidism

Q: Codi, our 13-year-old cat, needs methimazole for his hyperthyroidism, but he won’t take it. I’ve tried crushing his quarter-tablet and mixing it with pilling treats and various wet foods mixed with a flavor enhancer, but nothing works. I’m at my wit’s end trying to get him to take his medicine. Any suggestions are welcome. A: Hyperthyroidism, the most prevalent hormone imbalance in cats, becomes more common as cats age. Overactive thyroid glands produce excessive thyroid hormone, which revs up the metabolism, causing weight loss despite heightened appetite, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, increased drinking and urination, and behavior changes. Fortunately, many treatment options are available. You are giving Codi the generic version of methimazole, which suppresses thyroid hormone production. The drug is also available as Felimazole, a small, smooth tablet that’s easy for cats to swallow. A pharmacist can compound methimazole into an oral liquid that tastes like fish, …
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