My cat has a throat lump & lost weight. Is it hyperthyroidism? Cost?
If he does have a lump in his throat and has lost weight in the past year, then hyperthyroidism is a possibility. Costs will very from clinic to clinic and area to area, but as a ballpark, a blood test for thyroid function alone could be around 47 pounds, where a blood test for an old thin cat (that should cover the thyroid as well) could be around 100 pounds. There are three treatment options for hyperthyroidism: medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine. Each treatment has advantages and disadvantages, and the treatment choice depends on your cat's health, including heart and kidney function. Again, the cost will vary for each treatment, and your vet can let you know how much it could all potentially cost. There is nothing you can do for him at home to slow the disease, it's best that he's seen by a vet as soon as you can get him to one. If paying for a vet is an issue, you can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Carefree Credit online.
http://www.carefreecredit.co.uk
https://www.rspca.org.uk/whatwedo/vetcare
http://www.easipetcare.com
Updated on September 23rd, 2025