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What is the best thyroid and hormone medication for pets?
Many of the hormonal and thyroid conditions known to humans are also common in dogs and cats. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are seen regularly in veterinary offices. Addison’s and Cushing’s diseases, diabetes, and even reproductive hormonal problems can plague your furry friend.
Observing unusual symptoms, such as frequent urination, rapid heartbeat, weight gain or loss, or hair loss, can alert owners that something might be wrong. A trip to the vet can get your pet the right medication. Due to its multipurpose application and being well tolerated by pets, generic prednisone tablets they are the best thyroid and hormone medications for pets.
What to Know Before Buying Thyroid Medications and Hormones for Pets
What is the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland is a small endocrine gland that secretes important hormones in your pet. The main hormone produced by the thyroid gland is thyroxine. Thyroxine is known medically as T4. Thyroid hormones help control heart rate, body temperature, and how quickly the body burns calories.
What happens when the thyroid gland malfunctions?
There are two primary thyroid conditions based on the amount of thyroid hormone produced.
- hyperthyroidism it occurs when too much thyroid hormone is produced. Hyperthyroidism is rare in dogs, but occurs more often in middle-aged and older cats. Symptoms include weight loss, increased urination, and increased thirst.
- hypothyroidism It occurs when the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyroid hormone. It occurs most commonly in dogs and rarely in cats. Symptoms include weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, and a slow heart rate.
The correct medication restores the balance of the thyroid hormone and alleviates the original symptoms.
What are the other endocrine hormones?
Your pet’s endocrine system also includes the pituitary gland, adrenal system, pancreas, and reproductive glands. Common hormones like epinephrine, insulin, testosterone, estrogen, and growth hormones are secreted and regulated as part of the larger endocrine system. Medications are available to treat conditions when any of these hormones are out of balance.
What to look for in a quality pet thyroid and hormone medication
Shape
- tablets they are the most common form of hormonal medication. Some tablets are chewable and can be administered directly to your pet. Others are not chewable and must be swallowed whole. These can be combined with bread or peanut butter to help your pet swallow them easily.
- oral solutions Levothyroxine and other hormonal drugs are given in drops with a syringe.
- injectable The medications provide an instant infusion of medication into your pet’s bloodstream. They are usually administered by veterinarians, but there are some medications available in this form for pet owners who are comfortable injecting their dog or cat.
Subscription
If your pet requires long-term drug therapy and you buy your medications from an online pharmacy, consider setting up a subscription where the pharmacy automatically ships your medications each month. This eliminates having to remember to ask for refills and ensures your dog or cat doesn’t miss a dose.
Certification
Pet medications are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration in the same way as human pharmaceuticals. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act gives the FDA the authority to oversee pet medications. Make sure the medications you buy have been prescribed by your vet and are from an FDA-approved manufacturer.
How Much You Can Expect to Spend on Pet Hormones and Thyroid Medications
Thyroid meds cost between 7 and 25 cents per tablet. Other hormone medications are priced from 30 cents to $1.40 per tablet, with insulin and adrenal medications being on the higher end. Some medications are a single dose per day, while other conditions require multiple daily doses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Medications and Hormones for Pets
Are there dietary changes that can help with endocrine conditions?
TO. Medications prescribed by your vet are still the best way to restore hormonal balance in your pet. When your pet has been diagnosed with an endocrine excess or deficiency, a balanced diet is best. Try to avoid table scraps and foods that your pet would not normally eat.
What is Addison’s disease?
TO. Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough corticosteroid hormones. The symptoms of Addison’s disease are lethargy, decreased appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting. Since these can be symptoms of other conditions, see your vet for a proper diagnosis.
What is the best pet thyroid and hormone medication to buy?
Best Thyroid and Hormone Medications for Pets
What you need to know: This medication is commonly prescribed for dogs and cats to treat inflammation and hormonal problems.
What you will love: This medication is well tolerated by most pets, although some mild side effects may occur. It is commonly prescribed for Addison’s disease, which affects the adrenal system.
What you should consider: Prednisone can increase thirst and hunger, and your pet may urinate more frequently.
Where to buy: Sold by petco
The Best Pet Hormones and Thyroid Medications for the Money
What you need to know: This medication is a common and effective treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs and cats.
What you will love: This medication is prescribed to replace thyroid hormones that are not produced at a normal level. Your pet may experience weight gain, low energy, and hair loss when thyroid levels are low.
What you should consider: Side effects are minimal, but the drug should be taken in consultation with your vet.
Where to buy: Sold by petco
worth checking out
Generic Methimazole Tablets for Cats
What you need to know: This commonly prescribed medication for hyperthyroidism in cats is effective in treating symptoms.
What you will love: Hyperthyroidism, also known as thyrotoxicosis, causes weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and vomiting in cats. Methimazole is a reliable treatment that is well tolerated by most cats and provides measurable improvement within a few weeks.
What you should consider: Side effects may take up to 12 weeks to gradually disappear.
Where to buy: Sold by petco
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