My cat might have a thyroid nodule. What are the signs and next steps?

Question

seems to have a nodule on the thyroid gland but it isnt very pronounced so i am not sure. His appetite is normal, he always ate a lot but he seems to be having trouble going in the litter box. He is not listless nor vomiting but has is more vocal now. Pet's info: Cat | Bombay | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 7 lbs

Rodrigo Roca, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, sorry to hear about Lucky. There are a couple of different diagnostics you may chose to pursue to tell wether or not this nodule you are feeling is accurate or not. One option would be to pursue an ultrasound of his neck to further localize the nodule. If this is unrewarding a CT scan or a thyroid scan can also be performed. Some thyroid nodules are non-functional, this means that the tumors will not produce excess thyroid hormone, however in cats most thyroid tumors are functional and they do secrete thyroid hormone. Therefore, one way to tell if this nodule you are feeling is functional is to measure his thyroid levels. If elevated, then you can almost be sure that the nodule is in his thyroid. Treatments for this include surgery if only one thyroid is affected or radiation with I-131. Medications such as methimazole and a diet deficient of iodine can help control and treat hyperthyroid cats. Hope this helps and best of luck.

My cat might have a thyroid nodule. What are the signs and next steps?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Share