Cat Hyperthyroidism: Signs, Vet Care and Acupuncture
Weight loss with a big appetite in older cats: vet diagnosis, treatment and the limited role of acupuncture.
This guide is educational and does not replace a veterinary diagnosis. Acupuncture is used alongside, not instead of, conventional care, and the evidence differs from condition to condition. See our Medical Disclaimer.
See a veterinarian first
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately, and do not delay care to try acupuncture, if:
- Your cat is breathing fast or with an open mouth.
- Your cat is collapsing, very weak or suddenly blind.
- Vomiting is repeated or your cat stops eating.
- Your cat has a very fast heartbeat and seems distressed.
This list is not complete. Cats hide illness, so if you are worried, call your veterinarian.
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland and is common in older cats. It speeds up the body, causing weight loss despite a good appetite, restlessness and a fast heart rate. It can also raise blood pressure and strain the heart and kidneys.
Signs to look for
- Weight loss with a hungry appetite
- Restlessness, loud meowing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Increased thirst and urination
- Unkempt coat
How veterinarians diagnose and treat it
Diagnosis uses blood tests, and blood pressure and heart checks are also important. Treatment options include daily medicine (methimazole), radioactive iodine, surgery and a prescription diet, chosen with your veterinarian. Kidney function is monitored.
What acupuncture can and cannot do
Acupuncture does not control the thyroid. A few practitioners use it as supportive care for comfort, and it should never replace thyroid treatment.
What the evidence says: There is no good evidence that acupuncture treats hyperthyroidism in cats.
Results vary from cat to cat and cannot be promised. To find a practitioner, see cat acupuncture near me in our directory.
Acupuncture points for cats commonly discussed for this condition
These feline acupuncture points are named in traditional charts for the signs described on this page. Each guide gives the location, traditional indications and safety notes. Listing a point is not a promise that it will help, and points are chosen by the practitioner for each cat.
- BL17 Ge Shu (膈俞)Traditional use; see the point guide
- SP6 San Yin Jiao (三阴交)Chart lists: anxiety
- KI3 Tai Xi (太溪)Traditional use; see the point guide
- LIV3 Tai Chong (太冲)Chart lists: anxiety
- ST36 Zu San Li (足三里)Traditional use; see the point guide
- CV12 Zhong Wan (中脘)Traditional use; see the point guide
- HT7 Shen Men (神门)Chart lists: anxiety, insomnia
See all points on the cat acupuncture points chart.
Next steps and resources
Find cat acupuncture near me
Browse veterinary acupuncture clinics and mobile vets by country, state and city, and check who treats cats.
Search the directory →Books and learning
Acupuncture books, printable point cards, courses and learning resources.
See books and courses →Pet insurance
What to consider when comparing pet insurance for diagnostics, treatment and long-term care.
Read about pet insurance →Some resources are our own digital products, sold on Gumroad. Links to products from other makers may be affiliate links and are labelled. See our Affiliate and Product Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Can acupuncture cure hyperthyroidism?
No. Thyroid disease needs veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
Why is my cat losing weight but eating more?
This is a classic sign of hyperthyroidism, but diabetes and other diseases look similar. Have your cat tested.
Is treatment lifelong?
Medicine is usually lifelong, while radioiodine or surgery may resolve the problem. Your veterinarian can explain the options.
Related cat conditions
Looking for a veterinary acupuncturist for your cat?
Browse clinics and mobile vets by location, and check who treats cats and what training they have before you book.