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Thyroid Cancer (Adenocarcinoma) in Cats

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Treatment

There is no curative treatment yet available for this neoplasm of the thyroid gland in cats. Surgery may be employed for partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland, along with the neoplastic tissue. As this area has an extensive blood supply, it is possible for hemorrhage to occur during surgery, requiring a transfusion of blood to the patient. Other protocols used for treatment of a thyroid gland adenocarcinoma include radiotherapy and chemotherapy. If the thyroid gland is removed, your veterinarian may prescribe the iodine supplement thryoxine to be given orally to your cat in order to maintain other body functions that are dependent upon thyroxine. Thyroxine supplementation will be given for the life time of your cat.

Living and Management

Cats that have been treated for thyroid adenocarcinoma should be encouraged to rest if activity causes breathing problems. As much as possible, keep your cat in a low stress environment. The heart rate in these patients tends to fluctuate, so your cat may collapse unexpectedly at any time. Contact your veterinarian immediately in such a situation. Follow your veterinarian's treatment guidelines, especially in giving the chemotherapeutic agents at home. Many chemotherapeutic agents can be hazardous to your health if not handled properly, consult with your veterinarian on the best handling practices.