Tapazole cats take for hypothyroidism is a common course of treatment in cats that develop the chronic disease. Veterinarians prescribe this cat medication on a regular basis and in various doses depending on the progression of the cat hyperthyroid disease. Cat thyroid issues are common in older felines and usually resulting an overproduction of cat hormones as related to the thyroid.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroid in Cats
Cats that have developed hyperthyroid disease will show symptoms that include incessant meowing and a voracious hunger. Cats will often become aggressive around food when they suffer from hyperthyroid disease. Cats suffering from hyperthyroid may also appear disoriented and dizzy.
Determining if a Cat Has Hyperthyroid Disease
A blood test is required to determine if a cat has hyperthyroid disease. The blood test will also determine what the levels of the thyroid hormone are. Knowing the level of thyroid hormones will help the veterinarian decide how much of the Tapazole should be prescribed and how often the cat should be treated with the Tapazole.
Typical Dosages
To begin treatment with Tapazole most veterinarians will start with a low dosage and see how the cat responds before increasing the dosage amounts. The typical starting dose is dependant on the cats current thyroid hormone levels and the weight of the cat.
Topical Tapazole and Pill Form
Tapazole for cats comes in pill form or a topical lotion or gel that is applied to the cat's inner ear. Some people find the topical treatment easier to administer, but it is also more expensive. The pill form of Tapazole is relatively inexpensive by comparison, but administration can be difficult because many cats are reluctant to take pills.
Long-Term Treatment
Cats with hyperthyroid disease will require ongoing treatment with Tapazole. Cats will require regular blood tests, at least every six months, to determine if the thyroid hormone levels are still under control with the current dosages of Tapazole. Adjustment in terms of increasing the amount of Tapazole or decreasing the amount of Tapazole may be required from time to time.
Side Effects
As with any medication there are side effects that may occur when treating a cat with Tapazole. Side effects included vomiting, loss of appetite and depression. Sometimes adjusting the levels of Tapazole will help these symptoms, other times proper pill giving techniques will help because the pill is bitter.
Treatment of hyperthyroid in cats can reveal other problems such as kidney disease including renal failure. This is because hyperthyroid disease can mask other issues and when the hyperthyroid disease is under control, other diseases will become prevalent. If there are no other illnesses and a cat is only suffering from hyperthyroid, then it is possible for cats to go into remission with long-term hyperthyroid treatment. Tapazole can also be effective in stabilizing thyroid hormones, which may allow the cat to be eligible for permanent thyroid treatment through the use of radioactive iodine.