Thyroid (T4) testing explained
Thyroid disease runs opposite in dogs and cats: dogs get hypothyroidism (low T4), cats get hyperthyroidism (high T4). T4 is the first screening step; abnormal results usually need a recheck or free T4/TSH.
🧾 Avant l'examen
- ✓No fasting needed
- ✓Mention medications that can affect the result
📊 Lire les valeurs clés
| Rechercher | Haut | Bas |
|---|---|---|
| Dog T4 | Rare (thyroid tumor or over-supplementation) | Hypothyroidism: weight gain, symmetrical hair loss, low energy — but non-thyroid illness also lowers T4, confirm with free T4/TSH |
| Cat T4 | Hyperthyroidism: ravenous appetite with weight loss, vomiting, fast heart — the core senior-cat screen | Rare |
💡 Comment l'interpréter A single low T4 in a dog is not proof of hypothyroidism (other illness falsely lowers it). A raised T4 in a cat largely confirms hyperthyroidism. Both are treatable with good long-term outlooks.
🤖 Interprétation IA du rapport
Saisissez les valeurs de votre rapport ci-dessous (ex. « ALT 250, BUN 40 ») — l'IA les interprétera selon la signification de chaque valeur.
Questions fréquentes
Is hypothyroid medication lifelong?
Usually yes. Levothyroxine is inexpensive; after dose adjustments most dogs do very well.
How is feline hyperthyroidism treated?
Four options: anti-thyroid drugs, prescription iodine-restricted food, radioactive iodine therapy (curative), or surgery. Discuss trade-offs with your vet.