Feline hyperthyroidism (FHT), also called thyrotoxicosis, affects mostly middle-aged and older cats. It is caused by increased production of thyroid hormones from enlarged thyroid glands in the cat's neck, according to Cornell University. A new set of guidelines and related client materials hopes to better treat this disease.

On May 3, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) published “The Guidelines for the Management of Feline Hyperthyroidism” (Guidelines) in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery.

This free, downloadable resource is available on the AAFP website and includes the Guidelines and related client education materials.

Specifically, the Guidelines:

• Distill current research into simple, testing sequence recommendations to avoid misdiagnosis
• Organize a FHT diagnosis into six clinical categories with associated strategies 
• Outline the currently available disease treatments
• Explain how to monitor the patient to minimize co-morbid diseases 
• Offer client communication strategies that are evidence based.

Photo credit: © iStock/Anthony Rosenberg