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Hypothyroid disease

Low thyroid hormone production

Hypothyroid disease, characterized by low thyroid hormone production, can cause a variety of symptoms in pets. Signs may include:

  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Lethargy, reduced activity levels, or sluggishness
  • Changes in coat quality, such as dryness, hair loss, thinning, or excessive shedding
  • Skin problems, including dry, itchy skin, flaky patches, or recurrent skin infections
  • Muscle weakness or gait abnormalities
  • Changes in behavior or mood, such as mental dullness
  • Loss of appetite or decreased food intake
  • Intolerance to cold temperatures

Other health conditions may share similar symptoms with hypothyroid disease, including Cushings Disease, other endocrine disorders, or Skin Allergies.

If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your pet's health, consult with your veterinarian.

When you visit your veterinarian for concerns related to hypothyroid disease, the following may occur:

  • Medical History: They will take a detailed medical history, including any signs and their duration.
  • Physical examination: The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet, checking for any abnormalities in their weight, coat, skin, and overall health.
  • Diagnostic testing: Diagnostic testing such as blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels may be recommended to evaluate the presence of hypothyroid disease and rule out other possible causes.
  • Treatment options: The most important treatment for hypothyroid disease is medication to supplement thyroid function.
  • Follow-up care: Your veterinarian will discuss a follow-up plan, which may involve regular monitoring of your pet's hormone levels, additional tests, or adjustments to medication doses.

Your veterinary healthcare team will partner with you to decide which treatment option is best for your pet's and your family’s specific condition and situation.

In most cases, it’s not possible to prevent hypothyroid disease. These are measures to promote a healthy lifestyle which can help manage the condition:

  • Provide a balanced diet: Feed your pet a nutritionally balanced diet that meets their specific needs and supports overall health.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Provide a balanced diet and regular exercise to help your pet maintain a healthy weight.
  • Ensure regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.

Consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance on managing hypothyroid disease in your pet.

Please note that the information provided here is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your pet has hypothyroid disease or any other health concerns, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Nationwide® pet insurance claim example

Veterinary bill

$289

You pay only

$58

Hypothyroid disease

You save

$231

Example reflects Modular Plan Accident, Illness and optional Congenital & Hereditary rider as well as the optional Cruciate rider added after the first year of coverage, with $5,000 annual limit for each category and 80% reimbursement after the $250 annual deductible has been met. This plan may not be available in all areas. Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Veterinary bill amount is based on expenses incurred in the first 30 days after initial diagnosis.

See what’s covered

Nationwide® pet insurance claim example

Veterinary bill

$289

You pay only

$58

Hypothyroid disease

You save

$231

Example reflects Modular Plan Accident, Illness and optional Congenital & Hereditary rider as well as the optional Cruciate rider added after the first year of coverage, with $5,000 annual limit for each category and 80% reimbursement after the $250 annual deductible has been met. This plan may not be available in all areas. Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Veterinary bill amount is based on expenses incurred in the first 30 days after initial diagnosis.

See what’s covered

Nationwide® pet insurance claim example

Veterinary bill

$289

You pay only

$58

Hypothyroid disease

You save

$231

Example reflects Modular Plan Accident, Illness and optional Congenital & Hereditary rider as well as the optional Cruciate rider added after the first year of coverage, with $5,000 annual limit for each category and 80% reimbursement after the $250 annual deductible has been met. This plan may not be available in all areas. Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Veterinary bill amount is based on expenses incurred in the first 30 days after initial diagnosis.

See what’s covered
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Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Insurance terms, definitions and explanations are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in individual insurance contracts, policies or declaration pages, which are controlling. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, VetHelpline, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Nationwide grants users a limited license to duplicate this material, with attribution to Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, for non-commercial educational and informational purposes only. Materials should not be altered or modified in any way. ©2024 Nationwide.