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I have a 15 or 16 year old cat that appears to have the symptoms of hyper thyroidism, however I did go to the local vet and he did blood work and it came back negative. She is constantly begging for something to eat, her fur is not well kept as it use to be, she is skinny and boney. She may occassionally throw up, (i sometimes think because she tries to eat to much all at once if we don't watch her) and she does not necessary use the litter box. Is this just do to her age? I am somewhat anticipating something worse but was wondering if there is something else that may be causing these symptoms.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $15

When she was tested, were her teeth and gums examined?
How were they found to be?
What other tests were done?
How long has she been acting like this?

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Reply to Terri Riba's Post: No he did not examine her teeth but I have been wondering about them. He did test for Lukemia because he thought her to be anemic. He has given me some liquid vitamins to give her which I think have helped somewhat.

CAn you look at her gums and tell me if they are pale?

Dedicated to Cats and the people who love them!
Please press ACCEPT if my answer was helpful and leave feedback Thank you! Terri

Reply to Terri Riba's Post: Sorry for the delay, that wasn't an easy task--she doesn't like to be messed with to much. They are not real pink but they don't seem to be real pale either. It was kinda hard to tell

Dear friend,
When cats have dental disease and/or gingivitis bacteria from decaying teeth can enter her bloodstream and affect her organs.
The kidneys aid in the production of red blood cells. When kidney function is diminished (even slightly) red blood cell production drops and anemia presents.
In addition, I have seen many cats that tested in the normal range and still DID in fact have hyperthyroid.
At 15 years old, your cat must be treated like fragile glass because her immune system is no longer equippped to fight any issues.
If she has dental disease and her bloodwork indicates she cannot tolerate any proceedures, she should at least be prescribed antibiotics. This will keep any infection from affecting her organs, at least temporarily.
She should also NOT be fed dry food because it is painful and aggravates any sore gums and leads to vomiting. She should eat canned food only.
Her lack of grooming can be caused by changing hormones that cause her to secrete a sticky substance that some cats find offensive. You can wipe her down with a little dawn dishwashing liquid in water. Then rinse well with clear water.
Please discuss your cats teeth and retesting for hyperthyroid with your veterinarian in the near future.
If you have any more questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I will be more then happy to help in any way possible.
With warmest wishes,
Terri

Edited by purrfectkitty on March 23 2006 at 7:41 PM

Dedicated to Cats and the people who love them!
Please press ACCEPT if my answer was helpful and leave feedback Thank you! Terri

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