Hyperparathyroidism in Cats

Overview of Feline Hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a disorder resulting from excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by one or more of the parathyroid glands located in the neck. The excessive amounts of PTH cause an elevated calcium level in the bloodstream, and this can have harmful effects on the body and can make dogs and cats ill.

The most common cause of primary hyperparathyroidism is a single benign tumor, called an adenoma, on one of the parathyroid glands. Malignant tumors of the parathyroid gland are much less common.

Primary hyperparathyroidism is much more frequently diagnosed in dogs as compared to cats. Males and females are equally affected.

At first, the mildly elevated calcium levels don’t cause any symptoms. As time progresses and the calcium levels continue to rise, clinical symptoms appear. Three main body systems are usually affected: the gastrointestinal system, the kidneys, and the nervous system.

What to Watch For

Diagnosis of Hyperparathyroidism in Cats

Treatment of Hyperparathyroidism in Cats

Treatments for primary hyperparathyroidism may include the following:

Home Care and Prevention

Give medications as directed. If the abnormal parathyroid gland was surgically removed, cats will occasionally develop signs of LOW calcium 1 to 7 days post-operatively. Carefully monitor your pet at home for signs of low calcium, including panting, nervousness, muscle twitching, leg cramping, stiff gait and seizures.

There is no known cause for primary hyperparathyroidism, therefore, there is no preventative care.

In-depth Information on Feline Hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a glandular disorder in which excessive secretion of a hormone called PTH (parathyroid hormone) by one of the parathyroid glands located in the neck causes the calcium levels in the bloodstream to rise. The defect in the parathyroid gland is usually due to a solitary benign tumor in one of the glands. Occasionally, a malignant tumor of one of the parathyroid glands is responsible. Mild elevations of calcium usually cause no clinical symptoms; however, as calcium levels continue to rise, signs of illness develop.

Three body systems are most commonly affected: the gastrointestinal system, the kidneys, and the nervous system. There are many other disorders that can cause elevation in calcium levels. The diagnostic tests recommended will help differentiate hyperparathyroidism from the following:

Diagnosis In-depth

Treatment In-depth

Home Care of Cats with Hyperparathyroidism

Optimal treatment for your pet requires a combination of home and professional veterinary care. Follow-up can be critical, especially if your pet does not rapidly improve.