Presentation

a) Signalment:

• > 6 yrs of age cat
• Any breed

b) History:

• Weight loss – 96%
• Polyphagia – 77%
• Hyperactivity – 68%
• Polydipsia/polyuria – 53%
• Vomiting – 49%
• Diarrhea – 31%
• Increased fecal volume 28%
• Panting – 28%
• Muscle weakness – 22%
• Muscle tremor – 14%
• Signs of congestive heart failure – 13%
• Dyspnea – 13%

Comments: About 10% of cats do not show hyperexcitability or restlessness but manifest with extreme depression and weakness as the primary complaint.

c) Physical Examination – may reveal:

• Emaciation
• Palpable thyroid mass – 85 to 90% of cases
• Tachycardia
• Dysrhythmias, pulse deficits
• Gallop rhythm
• Heart murmur (AV valve insufficiency)
• Dyspnea
• Signs of congestive heart failure