Primary and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in Cats

Our furry friends can suffer from many diseases and conditions. One of the diseases felines can suffer from is hyperparathyroidism, which occurs when the parathyroid glands malfunction.

Parathyroid glands are located next to the thyroid glands in a cat's neck. The parathyroid glands are responsible for producing parathyroid hormone (PTH). Parathyroid hormone balances phosphorus and calcium levels in the blood. Hyperparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands malfunction, which results in an imbalance of these minerals in the feline's blood. There are two types of hyperparathyroidism - primary and secondary.

In primary hyperparathyroidism, the parathyroid glands overproduce PTH as a result of a tumor on the gland. The tumor often leads to hypocalcemia, high levels of calcium in the blood. Primary hyperparathyroidism is rare in cats.

The symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism include lethargy, loss of appetite, depression, increased thirst, vomiting, and increased urination. According to Vet Info, the symptoms of this condition typically surface slowly and progress with time.

A veterinarian may use different tests in order to diagnose a cat with this condition. First, your vet will give your kitty a thorough examination. He or she will also ask you questions about your feline's medical history and his or her symptoms. A blood test is necessary to determine your feline's calcium and phosphorus levels. Your veterinarian may also take x-rays, do a urinalysis, perform an ultrasound on your cat's neck and any other organs he or she suspects might be being affected, and conduct an electrocardiogram to measure the heart's electrical activity.

Treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism is typically accomplished by removing the parathyroid gland containing a tumor, which is most often the cause of the disease. According to Pet Place, some cats' blood calcium levels may become so high that they need to receive intravenous fluids and medication in a hospital setting.

The other type of feline hyperparathyroidism is secondary hyperparathyroidism. Secondary hyperparathyroidism may be seen in young kittens, generally as a result of an improper diet. This condition can also occur in older cats. When older felines develop this disease, it is generally as a result of chronic kidney failure.

Kittens who are suffering from nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism will exhibit several signs and symptoms. For instance, kittens with this condition often exhibit bone and joint deformities, abnormal bone growth, and/or bone loss. As a result, the kitten may stand with a wide-legged stance and be reluctant to move or stand. Additionally, the kitten may display difficulty walking and his or her bones may fracture easily.

In a feline who is suffering from secondary hyperparathyroidism as a result of chronic renal failure, several other symptoms and signs of either secondary hyperparathyroidism or kidney failure or both conditions may be present. These symptoms may include: excessive thirst and/or urination, muscle weakness and loss, a stiff gait, vomiting, bloody urine, lethargy or depression, difficulty urinating, and/or constipation, according to Vet Info.

According to Pet Place, a veterinarian will utilize different tests and methods for diagnosing a kitty with this condition. In addition to doing a physical examination, collecting information about a cat's medical history, and asking about a cat's nutrition, a vet may utilize a complete blood cell count (CBC), x-rays of the spine and legs, biochemical profile, and urinalysis in order to diagnose a feline with secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Treatment for nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism is based on what the underlying cause is. If the cause of the condition is due to nutritional imbalance, a veterinarian can help correct the kitten's diet and add calcium supplements. Inactivity will be encouraged in order to help prevent bone fractures. Additionally, a veterinarian may splint any fractured bones so that they can heal, according to Pet Place.

If the cat's secondary hyperparathyroidism is due to chronic renal failure, a veterinarian will need to treat the kitty's kidney condition in order for the symptoms of the hyperparathyroidism to improve. A cat with kidney failure will need to eat a special diet. He or she may also receive nutritional supplements to balance the chemicals in the blood such as calcium and phosphorus, be put on dialysis, and receive other medications as deemed appropriate by a vet.

If you suspect your cat has primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism or if your cat displays the symptoms of one of these conditions, take him or her to the veterinarian to determine what is going on. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose your feline's problem and answer any questions you have about your furry friend's health.

Sources:

Max's House Animal Rescue Inc: Endocrine System and Disorders:
http://maxshouse.com/Endocrine_System_&_Disorders.htm

Vet Info: Primary Hyperparathyroidism Symptoms in Cats:
http://www.vetinfo.com/primary-hyperparathyroidism-symptoms-cats.html

PetMD: Hyperparathyroidism in Cats:
http://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/endocrine/c_ct_excess_parathyroid_hormone

Pet Education: Hyperparathyroidism in Cats:
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=1+2130&aid=298

Pet Place: Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in Cats:
http://www.petplace.com/cats/nutritional-secondary-hyperparathyroidism-in-cats/page1.aspx

Pet Place: Hyperparathyroidism in Cats:
http://www.petplace.com/cats/hyperparathyroidism-in-cats/page1.aspx