Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Four Paths to Euthyroid

Learning Objectives

• 1Recall the diagnostic criteria for feline hyperthyroidism including T4 thresholds, clinical signs, and when to pursue free T4 or scintigraphy
• 2Explain the concept of 'unmasking CKD' when treating hyperthyroidism and describe the recommended monitoring protocol for renal function post-treatment
• 3Compare and contrast the four primary treatment options — methimazole, radioactive iodine (I-131), thyroidectomy, and iodine-restricted diet — including efficacy, risk profile, cost, and quality-of-life implications
• 4Given a patient case, select the most appropriate treatment modality based on concurrent disease, owner constraints, and clinic capabilities
• 5Assess the evidence for integrative adjuncts — including hepatoprotectants, adaptogens, cardiac support nutraceuticals, and acupuncture — and determine when each is appropriate in the hyperthyroid cat

Course Syllabus

1. 1
   Meet Biscuit: A Case That Asks the Right QuestionsPreview

   Opening case scenario introducing a classic but diagnostically tricky presentation of feline hyperthyroidism

   6 min
2. 2
   Pathophysiology and Diagnosis

   Adenomatous hyperplasia, T4 cascade effects, diagnostic thresholds, when to pursue free T4 and scintigraphy

   10 min
3. 3
   The CKD Masking Problem

   Why hyperthyroidism inflates GFR and creatinine, how to stage renal function safely, trial methimazole protocol before permanent treatment

   9 min