Can methimazole make cats sick?

Can methimazole make cats sick?

Methimazole may produce side effects in cats, including depression, vomiting, and lack of appetite. These signs usually resolve without stopping the medication. A more serious side effect is the development of low blood cell counts, which is more likely to develop during the first three months of treatment.

What are the side effects of hyperthyroidism medication in cats?

The most common side effects of Felimazole reported to FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine are:

• A change in appetite (the cat’s appetite may increase or decrease),
• decreased activity level (sluggishness),
• vomiting,
• diarrhea or loose stool,
• skin lesions,
• itchy skin, especially the face, head, and neck,

How long does it take for methimazole to start working in cats?

The cat’s natural thyroid hormone levels will be reduced in one to three weeks. After your cat is stabilized on methimazole, blood tests for thyroid hormone levels usually are performed every three to six months.

Can methimazole cause lethargy in cats?

Some cats develop side effects to methimazole, which may include vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, fever, liver damage, anemia, and a decrease of white blood cells in the blood. In some cases, a decrease in blood platelets (thrombocytopenia) may also occur.

How effective is methimazole for cats?

In cats, oral methimazole is rapidly absorbed, with: An oral bioavailability of 93% Maximal serum concentrations seen within 1.5 hours. Mean half-life of 3.12 hours and serum concentrations at 24 hours—after a single oral 5-mg dose—of 21.7 ± 28.9 ng/mL.

Does methimazole make cats thirsty?

Symptoms include weight loss, increased appetite, frequent urination, increased thirst, weakness, greasy hair, restlessness, aggressive behavior, depression, difficulty breathing, and stomach problems. The symptoms may be mild at first, then they become more severe over time.

How can I fatten up my cat with hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroid cats need high calorie and high protein diets to reduce the rate of weight loss and muscle wasting that accompanies the disease. Thyroxine (the major hormone produced by the thyroid gland) is one of numerous counter-regulatory or anti-insulin hormones. As such it’s effects are opposite to those of insulin.

Can methimazole for cats be crushed in soft food?

Methimazole is a medication that can be given in tablet form (the tiny tablet can be crushed and mixed into wet food) or as a topical gel that you rub on the inside of the cat’s ears (ideal for non-pillable cats).

What are the side effects of methimazole 5 mg for cats?

The most common side effects include vomiting, anorexia, and tiredness, and usually occur within the first three months of treatment. Other, less common side effects such as gastrointestinal effects and mild changes in your pet’s blood cell counts are usually temporary and resolve with time.

How do you know when your cat is dying of hyperthyroidism?

Weight loss The weight loss associated is generally progressive and is usually first noticed by the owner as a loss of muscle mass around the cat’s back (spine). With time, severe muscle wasting, emaciation, and death from starvation can occur if the cat’s hyperthyroidism is left untreated.

How do I know if my cat is getting too much thyroid medication?

Cats with too much thyroid hormone have a greatly increased metabolic rate, which leads them to lose weight despite having a ravenous appetite. Other symptoms can include anxiety, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased thirst and urination.

Are cats with hyperthyroidism in pain?

Unfortunately, this means that many pet owners leave feline hyperthyroidism untreated. Doing so can cause pain and anguish for the cat. Feline hyperthyroidism is treatable and can be completely cured if spotted early.