Hyperparathyroidism in cats | Catnip Times

Did you find a lump on the underside of your cat’s neck? Have you noticed a change in their behavior or noticed blood in their urine? There may be a variety of reasons for these symptoms, but you should consult veterinary doctor possibility of hyperparathyroidism.

What is hyperparathyroidism?

Although rare, cats can develop a condition called hyperparathyroidism, which means an overactive parathyroid gland. Hyperparathyroidism leads to another condition called hypercalcemia (high calcium). It appears most commonly in middle age for older cats and Siamese cats.

What causes hyperparathyroidism?

There are two types of hyperparathyroidism, primary and secondary. Primary hyperparathyroidism is caused by a tumor or enlargement of the parathyroid gland — the gland being the cause of the disease. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is usually caused by poor diet or kidney disease and leads to high levels of calcium in the body.

What are the symptoms of hyperparathyroidism?

If your cat has hyperparathyroidism, symptoms you may notice include:

• idle
• Constipation
• Poor appetite
• muscle tremor
• Changes in your cat’s urination habits or blood in the urine
• Excessive thirst, which is not typical of your cat’s normal behavior
• lump in the neck

You or your vet may feel a lump on the underside of your cat’s neck (the throat area), where the parathyroid glands are located.

Hyperparathyroidism can lead to hypercalcemia. So if your cat has hypercalcemia and isn’t receiving treatment, it can cause calcium mineral deposits to form in the muscles or skin. Over time this can weaken the bones, and in extreme cases the bones can fracture.

Although symptoms are common with hyperparathyroidism, not all cats exhibit symptoms.

How is hyperparathyroidism diagnosed?

Hyperparathyroidism causes high levels of calcium in the body, so the first step in diagnosis is usually a blood test to check calcium levels. High levels of calcium are referred to as “hypercalcemia.”

In addition to blood tests, your vet may recommend x-rays to check bone density and to look for calcium deposits in the soft tissues or bladder. They may also suggest an ultrasound scan of the neck to look at your thyroid and parathyroid glands. Your vet may also perform a biopsy.

How is hyperparathyroidism treated?

The best treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism is surgical removal of the affected parathyroid glands. Before surgery, however, your cat will need stabilization therapy to prepare her for a successful procedure. Stabilization therapy will help lower calcium levels, which can be done with diuretics, some steroids, and through IV fluids.

During the surgery, the vet will examine each of the parathyroid glands and remove any that appear enlarged or diseased. Surgery is usually very successful and leads to a cure, but cats often need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements for a while afterwards.

Secondary causes of hyperparathyroidism can be treated by correcting the underlying cause and no surgery is required.

What is the prognosis if my cat has hyperparathyroidism?

Hyperparathyroidism usually resolves within weeks after surgery, or a change in nutrition (in cases of secondary hyperparathyroidism). Seeking veterinary care early is critical in preventing worsening of hyperparathyroidism symptoms.

Put it all together…

If your cat has hyperparathyroidism, you may notice some of the classic symptoms. However, cats are great at masking pain and not all cats with the condition show signs of discomfort. If your cat is not behaving normally, take her to a vet. If your cat has a lump on her neck, appears lethargic, is vomiting or constipated, or shows changes in her urinary behavior, take her to see a vet and don’t be afraid to mention the possibility of hyperparathyroidism.

About the Author, Angela Topf, DVM

Born and raised in Seminole, Florida, Angela graduated from the University of South Florida with a B.A Certificate in Biomedical Sciences. Her interests include working in a small animal hospital with an emphasis on surgery. Angela has two dogs, Tucker, a Labrador/Mastiff and Labrador mix named Brody. In her spare time, Angela enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going to the gym, watching sports, and doing anything on the water. Angela serves the Tampa area and has worked with her vets for a year and a half.

If you enjoyed this post, check out this post about Siamese cats or read more about how to purchase pet insurance for cats that are prone to a variety of conditions such as hyperparathyroidism.