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What are the best medication options for my cat's hyperthyroidism?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 12 years and 3 months old | 12 lbs

My cat was just diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Our Vet recommended a medication applied inside the ear twice a day or pills once per day. I don't know the name of the med but was wondering how you might treat.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2017

I assume that Chetoh was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, as cats are rarely diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Typically, I treat with methimazole pills twice daily as a starting point. I find that the T4 hormone is better controlled with oral medications than the transdermal medications on the ear because absorption is variable with this method. Once hyperthyroidism is well controlled and it is apparent that the kidneys are stable, it can be worth considering I-131 (radioactive iodine) treatment, as it stops the need for medication at home in most cases. All of that said, there are still plenty of cases that I do prescribe the transdermal ear version of methimazole because some cats are extremely difficult to medicate at home. Just make sure that Chetoh follows his vet's recommendation for follow up lab testing so that his medication dosage stays appropriate.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It can sometimes be hard to get a pill into a cat, and if you feel that Chetoh would be difficult to pill, I'd recommend using the medication you can apply inside his ears. There are a couple of different medications used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats including methimazole and iodine-containing agents such as ipodate, iopanoic acid, and iodate. Your vet can determine the most appropriate medication for Chetoh.

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