My senior cat's T4 is high. Does she need hyperthyroidism meds now?

Question

I have changed vets recently. The new vet recommended a blood test for my cat. The result of the thyroid test was 4.9. A free T4 was done as a follow up to the thyroid testing done last week,, and that was a little bit elevated., The vet said the numbers are suggestive of hyperthyroidism. She said a symptom would be weight gain. My cat now weighs about 13 lbs and she is a senior cat. There is nothing different in her behavior. The vet wants to put my cat on medication now. What is your advic. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 13 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (over active thyroid) in cats are: weight LOSS not gain, increased thirst and urination, increased hunger and vocalizing especially at night. They can have heart murmurs and arrhythmia. The side effects on not treating is heart disease and weight loss. I recommend treating if her T4 is above the high end of the reference range. Please feel free to post her blood work results. I hope this helps and I wish Sofi the best!

My senior cat's T4 is high. Does she need hyperthyroidism meds now?

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