My hyperthyroid cat is acting strange, hiding, not eating. Why?

I'm sorry to hear that Cleo isn't eating as well as she normal does. Hyperthyroidism typically causes weight loss despite an increase in appetite, although rare cats may experience a decreased appetite. The change in Cleo's appetite alone may or may not be associated with hyperthyroidism. Other causes of this sudden lack of interest in food and lethargy could be related to a gastrointestinal virus, kidney disease, parasites, liver disease, among many other conditions. If she still isn't eating normally in the next day or two, Cleo should go to her vet for evaluation and likely blood testing. However, if she becomes experiences extreme lethargy, experiences profuse vomiting or diarrhea, or will not drink water, Cleo should go to the vet immediately. I hope this helps and that Cleo feels better soon!

These sudden changes in temperament and the weight loss are commonly due to an endocrine problem called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid starts working more than normal increasing the metabolism (that is the cause of the weight loss) and causing behavioural changes similar to what you described. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm this clinical suspicion and treat appropriately. A blood test and urine analysis are needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

No, you shouldn't discontinue the medicine without consulting your vet but you must take her to your vet ASAP as there is obviously a problem, either the dosage needs to be adjusted or maybe she is developing a kidney disease, which is common with cats with hyperthyroidism.

It certainly sounds as though Grey is not feeling well! Inappetance, hiding and vocalization can indicate a number of underlying conditions, but hyperthyroidism is at the top of the list. I recommend taking Grey to her vet for an exam and lab testing (CBC, chemistry, T4/thyroid hormone, urinalysis) to get to the bottom of things. Cats can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) when the stop eating, so her condition is fairly urgent.

Hello. I am so sorry for Sophie, but glad that she is in a place where she will get all the care she needs. Kidney problems can always be an issue with hyperthyroidism, as is cardiovascular disease. And , some hyperthyroid cases are actually due to a malignancy in the thyroid gland & this unfortunately can be very troublesome. I do not want to scare or alarm you. She may just be simply sick with an infection, or needs to have her medications adjusted. I hope the ER vets are keeping you updated on her condition & any testing that has been done. Do not be afraid to call & get regular updates on her condition. By staying informed, you become a part of her care team. I hope she is back home with soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The behavior you describe is definitely a little unusual. Cats are actually somewhat of a prey species, so they are very good at hiding illnesses. I recommend keeping a close eye on Hobbes, and having her seen by a vet if this continues for the next 2 days or so. She should be seen sooner if you feel that she has declined or begins to show signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. I hope this helps and that all is well!

No that is uncommon. Many cats do not do well with diet changes and he certainly had a poor reaction to the food. Continue with his old diet. If you are unable to give oral medication you can have the medication made into a gel that you can rub on the ear flap where it will be absorbed through the skin. A compounding pharmacy can do this for you. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Theo.