The thyroid gland is a two-lobed gland located in the neck. It produces thyroid hormones that are responsible for a number of important bodily functions, including regulating metabolism. Thyroid tumors are abnormal masses of tissue that develop in the thyroid gland. Left untreated, they can lead to a variety of health problems in cats and dogs.
Causes of Thyroid Tumors
Thyroid tumors develop as a result of abnormal growth of cells. Although the underlying cause of thyroid tumors is not fully understood, genetic factors are thought to contribute to their development. Certain breeds of dogs are predisposed to developing thyroid tumors. These include boxers, beagles, and Siberian huskies. However, there are no known breed predispositions in cats. Thyroid tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). In dogs, most thyroid tumors are malignant. By comparison, the majority of thyroid tumors in cats are benign.
Symptoms of Thyroid Tumors
Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of thyroid tumors.
- Mass in the neck
- Respiratory problems
- Difficulty swallowing
- Coughing
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
In cats, thyroid tumors commonly lead to hyperthyroidism (a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces too many hormones). The disorder can also develop in dogs, although it is far less common. The following symptoms are associated with hyperthyroidism in pets.
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Polyuria (increased thirst)
- Polydipsia (increased urination)
- Hyperactivity or other behavioral changes
Diagnosis of Thyroid Tumors
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. They will then perform a complete physical examination to check for masses or other symptoms of thyroid tumors.
Diagnostic tests such as a urinalysis and bloodwork will be carried out to assess thyroid hormone levels and rule out other causes of your pet’s symptoms. In addition, imaging techniques including X-rays, ultrasounds, MRI or CT scans may be recommended to help diagnose thyroid tumors and determine their severity. In some cases, your veterinarian may also perform a tissue biopsy to reach a definitive diagnosis.
Treatment of Thyroid Tumors
Treatment of thyroid tumors will depend on several factors, including their type, size, and location. Some of the most common treatment methods include surgical removal, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and radioactive iodine therapy. If your pet is suffering from hyperthyroidism, your veterinarian may also prescribe medications or specialized diets to manage their symptoms.
Your veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment methods based on your pet’s specific needs. Please follow all treatment advice closely and administer prescribed medications as instructed.
Prevention of Thyroid Tumors
The cause of thyroid tumors is not fully understood. For this reason, they are not considered preventable. We recommend feeding a healthy, balanced diet to support your pet’s overall health. It is also important to schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian so your pet’s health can be continuously monitored.
