Hypothyroïdie chez le Chien
L'hypothyroïdie fait que la thyroïde ne produit pas assez d'hormones.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, slowing the body's metabolism. It's one of the most common endocrine disorders in dogs and, fortunately, one of the easiest to treat. With daily thyroid hormone supplementation, affected dogs live completely normal lives.
Points Clés
- Most common in middle-aged, medium to large breed dogs
- Weight gain without increased appetite is a classic sign
- Causes lethargy, hair loss, and cold intolerance
- Diagnosed with a simple blood test
- Treatment is a daily thyroid hormone pill — inexpensive and effective
- Most dogs return to normal with treatment
What Happens in Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland produces hormones (T4 and T3) that regulate metabolism. In hypothyroidism, the immune system often destroys the thyroid tissue (lymphocytic thyroiditis), or the gland degenerates (idiopathic atrophy). Without enough thyroid hormone, the body's processes slow down — metabolism, heart rate, skin cell turnover, and mental function all decrease.
Signs
The classic signs develop gradually: weight gain without eating more, lethargy and reluctance to exercise, hair loss (especially on the trunk, tail, and sides — often symmetrical), dry and dull coat, cold intolerance (seeking warm spots), thickened skin, facial swelling ('tragic face'), slow heart rate, and behavioral changes (depression, mental dullness). Recurring ear infections can also be a sign.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is straightforward: a blood test measuring thyroid hormone levels (total T4, free T4, and TSH). Treatment is simple: daily levothyroxine (thyroxine) pills for life. The dose is adjusted based on blood tests every 4-8 weeks initially, then every 6-12 months once stable. The medication is inexpensive and very effective.
Life With Treatment
Most dogs show dramatic improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment: energy returns, weight normalizes, coat improves, and behavior brightens. Many owners say it's like getting a 'new dog.' Thyroid levels need regular monitoring to ensure the dose is correct. The prognosis is excellent — hypothyroid dogs with proper treatment have a normal lifespan.
Quand Aller chez le Vétérinaire
- Unexplained weight gain
- Lethargy or reluctance to exercise
- Symmetrical hair loss
- Dry, dull coat
- Your dog seems 'old before their time'
- Recurring ear infections
Comment le Centre Royal Peut Aider
RVC diagnoses hypothyroidism with thyroid blood tests and manages treatment with regular monitoring. Treatment is simple and highly effective. Call +853 6677 6611.
Cet article est à titre éducatif uniquement. Contactez le Centre Royal au +853 6677 6611.