THERAPEUTIC APPROACH AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT IN THE TREATMENT OF FELINE HYPERTHYROIDISM

Abstract

Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrinopathy in elderly cats, resulting from the excessive production of thyroid hormones mainly due to adenomatous hyperplasia or functional adenomas of the thyroid gland. The disease causes significant multisystemic alterations, including cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal repercussions, and is frequently associated with the coexistence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). The objective of this narrative literature review was to examine the main therapeutic approaches and clinical management strategies for the treatment of feline hyperthyroidism. Data collection was carried out in PubMed using descriptors related to the disease and its treatment in felines. The therapeutic modalities highlighted include radioactive iodine, antithyroid drug therapy with thioureylene compounds, surgical thyroidectomy, and iodine-restricted diets, each with specific indications and limitations. Continuous clinical follow-up is essential due to the risk of renal decompensation, iatrogenic hypothyroidism, and systemic arterial hypertension after treatment. It is concluded that therapeutic success requires an individualized approach and periodic monitoring of renal and thyroid functions to ensure quality of life and survival in feline patients.