Hyperthyroidism vs. Diabetes?

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hmclaughlin1973

hmclaughlin1973

Member Since 2017
I know it is possible for them to have BOTH, but my question is specifically: Could my cat have hypothyroidism and NOT diabetes? Could Hypothyroidism be the cause of elevated BG? (Have not done Thyroid labs)
 
It's actually really unusual for a cat to have hypothyroidism - the usual cause is something called "euthyroid sick" where there is an underlying condition suppressing their thyroid hormone levels. Solving the underlying condition will usually solve the thyroid issue as well. Hyperthyroidism is fairly common in older cats, though I haven't heard of it raising BG levels. If you think your cat might have a thyroid issue, then the only way to diagnose it is to run a thyroid panel.
 
I think you mean hyperthyroidism (?). If your cat's diagnosis of diabetes was based on blood glucose level and the presence of glucose in the urine, then the diagnosis should be accurate.
 
hmclaughlin1973 said:
They didn't take urine sample, only blood.
Click to expand...
So, the vet did a blood glucose test and the results were high so he/she diagnosed diabetes and prescribed insulin with no urine test to verify glucose there??? Tell me they did a fructosamine test instead.. something? If not, that is super lame! It is great that you are home testing to keep your baby safe.

Anyway... I am no expert on this by any means, but... while the clinical symptoms of both are very similar, I do not think sustained high blood glucose would indicate hyperthyroidism. BUT, a cat that has hyperthyroidism can require higher doses of insulin to get their glucose levels down to normal since it causes an increase in the metabolic rate. A little confusing, I know. I had a cat with hyperthyroidism who did not have an issue with high blood glucose, and I now have a cat who has diabetes but not hyperthyroidism. I have not personally had to deal with both at the same time. (And I am fine with that!)

I think I saw in another one of your posts that you are looking for a new vet. I would say find one and get in for testing to confirm what is going on with PJ.. with some actual legitimate, appropriate tests. :)
 
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