Educational Overview
What Is Hyperthyroidism?
In traditional veterinary understanding, hyperthyroidism refers to an increase in the activity of the thyroid glands, resulting in higher levels of thyroid hormone within the body. This condition is most often seen in older cats, and is uncommon in dogs.
The thyroid glands, located in the neck region, influence energy metabolism, growth, and general vitality. In some animals, one or both glands may become enlarged, which can alter hormone output. Because thyroid hormones affect many organ systems, the observable signs of imbalance can vary between individuals.
Cats experiencing thyroid overactivity are often mature or senior, with the average age around 13 years. Only a small percentage of affected cats are under 10 years old.
In cases where the thyroid area is enlarged, nearby structures such as the parathyroid glands, surrounding nerves, or voice box may also be affected. This can occasionally contribute to secondary changes such as altered vocalisation, differences in eye appearance, or variations in calcium balance.
While these patterns have been described in traditional and veterinary contexts, any suspicion of thyroid imbalance should always be assessed by a qualified veterinarian.
Thyroid and Liver Health
Thyroid hormones play a key role in maintaining normal growth, organ development, and overall metabolic balance in animals.
In horses, changes in thyroid activity are uncommon. True hypothyroidism in adult horses is not well understood and may be less frequent than once thought. In cats and dogs, thyroid balance can vary with age and general health. Maintaining good nutrition and avoiding chemical exposure is traditionally regarded as supportive for overall wellbeing.
If your animal has had thyroid testing and still appears unwell, this may suggest that other body systems—such as the liver—also need support. Professional veterinary guidance should always be sought for diagnosis and management. Natural nutritional and herbal blends are traditionally used as complementary support for overall balance and vitality.
Note: “Saddle thrombus” in cats is sometimes observed alongside cases of hyperthyroid imbalance.
Understanding Hyperthyroid States
Hyperthyroidism refers to an increased activity of the thyroid glands, leading to higher circulating levels of thyroid hormone. It is seen most often in older cats, and rarely in dogs. Cats with thyroid over activity are typically mature or senior (often over 10 years old).
The thyroid glands, located in the neck, can sometimes enlarge, resulting in higher hormone output. Because thyroid hormones influence metabolism throughout the body, changes may show up as shifts in appetite, energy, coat quality, or temperament.
Traditional observation lists include:
-
Changes in body weight or appetite
-
Restlessness or increased activity
-
Occasional vomiting or digestive upset
-
Changes in thirst or urination patterns
-
Variations in coat texture or shedding
-
Vocalisation or altered temperament
These signs can appear gradually, so careful monitoring is important. If notable changes occur, professional veterinary assessment is essential to rule out underlying causes.
Physical Signs Sometimes Associated with Thyroid Imbalance
Physical changes may include visible swelling in the neck area, or differences in breathing or swallowing patterns. Affected animals may appear thinner despite normal or increased appetite.
In some cases, a palpable mass over the throat region may be noted by a veterinary practitioner. This can contribute to breathing or swallowing difficulty and requires professional evaluation.
Because thyroid function interacts with the heart, animals with longstanding imbalances may develop heart-related changes such as altered rhythm or rate.
These signs may overlap with other conditions, including digestive or liver congestion. Supporting general wellness through balanced nutrition, reduced chemical exposure, and appropriate practitioner-guided supplements is often recommended as part of holistic care.
Understanding Liver Balance
The liver plays a vital role in filtering waste products, supporting digestion, and regulating metabolism. In traditional wellness systems, maintaining liver balance is seen as essential for overall vitality.
When the liver is under strain, various behavioural and physical changes may appear.
These may include:
-
Disorientation or confusion after eating
-
Unsteady movement or apparent “wobbliness”
-
Changes in alertness, activity, or training response
-
Periods of aimless pacing or circling
-
Increased thirst, drooling, or altered appetite
-
Digestive upsets such as vomiting or soft stools
-
Unusual vocalisation or sudden mood changes
If these signs are noticed, veterinary evaluation is advised. Natural liver support blends such as herbal tonics or botanical extracts are traditionally used to help maintain balance, but should only be used as adjuncts to professional care.
Circulatory and Neurological Observations (e.g., Stroke-Like Episodes)
Occasionally, animals may experience sudden weakness, loss of coordination, or difficulty standing. These changes can have several causes, including circulatory events, inner ear imbalance, or other systemic conditions.
A sudden onset of disorientation or collapse always warrants immediate veterinary assessment. Traditional herbal or nutritional approaches can only play a supportive role once professional care has identified and stabilised the underlying condition.
Important Advisory
This information is provided for educational and traditional wellness reference only.It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Always consult a qualified veterinary professional before making changes to medication, diet, or supplementation.
* Natural pet botanicals are not intended to replace veterinary care or medication.
SET OF
Educational Purposes
Formulated with plant-based ingredients selected for their gentle role in supporting overall balance and wellbeing.
In some cases, animals prescribed thyroid-regulating medications (for example, methimazole) may also benefit from supportive natural formulas. These may help maintain overall balance and nutritional resilience.
Reducing chemical exposure and supporting liver function through appropriate diet, hydration, and natural herbal blends may contribute to improved wellbeing over time.
SET OF 4
1. Thyroid Harmony 20-1 formula 50ml 2. Pet Kalm 04 formula 30ml 3. Nutra 20-3 formula 100ml
4. Thyro-Reg 20-4 Mix 100ml
Contains:
Formula 1.
Bugle-weed (Lycopus Lucidus 30C)
Greater Celandine (Chelidonium 30C, 12C)
Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus 30C)
Ginger Root (Zingiber Officinale 6C, 30C)
Silico-fluoride of Calcium (Lapis Alb 12X, 30C)
Iodothyrinu (Thyroiodinum 12X)
Iodine Mineral (Iodum 30C, 1M)
Bromine Mineral (Bromium 6C, 30X)
Potassium Chloride (Kali Mur 12X, 30C)
in 20% USP alc.in purified water.
Formula 2.
Common Oatstraw (Avena Sativa 12X)
Hops (Humulus lupulus 200C)
St. Ignatius Bean (Ignatia 30C, 200C)
Phosphate of Potassium (Kali Phos 12X)
Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata 1M)
Musk-root (Sumbul 1M)
Valerian Root (Valeriana 1M)
Chamomile Flower (Chamomilla 1M)
in 20% USP alc.in purified water.
Formula 3.
Vanadium Mineral (Vanadium 200C)
in 20% USP alc.in purified water.
Formula 4.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Bugleweed (Lycopus lucidus)
Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus laevigata)
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Hops (Humulus lupulus)
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis)
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
in purified water & 30%-40% USP alc.
Need more advice or have more questions? Contact us for a FREE consultation with one of our fully qualified practitioners.
These statements are for general wellbeing and educational purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Always seek veterinary or professional advice for specific health concerns.
DISCLAIMER
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from your health care practitioners. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.