Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common disease in cats which is characterized by an increased amount of thyroid hormone. 

“Thyroid hormone is involved in regulating the basal metabolic rate in the body,” said Maryanne Murphy, DVM, Ph.D., DACVN, clinical assistant professor of nutrition in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in Knoxville, Tennessee.

“When a cat has all this extra thyroid hormone moving around, it’s amplifying the metabolic rate. That means that all the energy the cat is taking in through its diet is being burned through very quickly. And so, it’s extremely common for the cat to become very hungry and even start to lose weight because it can’t keep up with those energy needs,” she said. 

You should talk to your vet if you notice any symptoms, such as increased thirst or urination, be vomiting or have diarrhea, have a dry haircoat and be hyperactive.