Thyroid illness should be treated by an experienced homeopathic veterinarian.
Hypothyroidism, an excess production of thyroid hormone, occurs in cats and rare in dogs. The thyroid glands are located in the neck, on either side of the trachea (windpipe). They produce thyroid hormone, a substance that stimulates body metabolism. Decreased thyroid hormone, or hypothyroidism, results typically in overweight sluggish animals that are chilly and often have a poor coat. This condition is rather common in dogs and rare cats in cats. When this occurs, the animal typically eats ravenously though she loses weight, as the food passes rapidly through the intestines and exits as diarrhea without providing much nourishment. These patients tend to be restless, hyperactive, and warm natured.
For the hyperthyroid dog, as with all conditions, it is important to provide good food such as a home prepared diet. a few supplements may be useful. Kelp provides trace minerals including iodine, an essential part of thyroid hormone. Give one tablet per ten pounds daily. The amino acid L-Tyrosine is the other major ingredients as it forms the base for the thyroid hormones; low levels of L-Tyrosine have been associated with hypothyroidism in humans. Give 125 mg per twenty five pounds once or twice a day.
The Brassica family of vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, turnip contains a compound that can slow an overactive thyroid gland.
Good food is essential, and digestive enzymes may improve digestion, allowing the cat to reap greater benefit from her food.
