My cat won’t take a pill for her hyperthyroidism. What are some other options to administer medication and treat this condition?
Original Question: Bella my cat has been diagnosed as having an overactive thyroid. The vet has recommended a pill to be taken twice a day. We have not been able to administer medication in the past. It was stressful to Bella, and I ended up being clawed and having to take antibiotics, so this is not feasible. Is there anything else that we could use to keep her thyroid in check? - Barbara
Sep 17, 2018
Hi Barbara,
Thanks for your question.
Easy answer. Ask your veterinarian about the diet that controls hyperthyroidism in cats. If that is not a possibility, then have your veterinarian ask a ‘compounding pharmacy’ to create a transdermal gel. This is a lotion that you rub on the ears to control the condition.
Lastly, you can inquire about the radioactive iodine therapy which is expensive but cures the condition. In fact, it’s typically cheaper over time because you never need to purchase medication or perform multiple expensive blood tests annually to monitor the condition.
One of these options will work very well for you. Good luck.
Dr Clayton Greenway
Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.
