Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism in Cats
Hyperparathyroidism in cats with kidney failure should be a primary concern. Hyperparathyroidism
is a condition of the parathyroid gland,which has a direct relationship with the nervous system therefore,
in chinese medicine, the entire nervous system would be evaluated and treated and not just the PT gland.
The condition involves this gland becoming over or hyper active. The normal function of this gland is to
regulate or balance the calcium to phosphorus ratio in the blood. Ideally, this level should be maintained at
a 2:1 ratio or twice as much calcium as phosphorus. This is sometimes referred to as serum [blood] phosphorus
level or serum calcium level.
The increase of phosphorus in the cat's blood, is a result of declining kidney function or kidney disease.
It also results in excessive stomach acid which can lead to poor appetite, nausea, vomitting,
mouth ulcers, anorexia and depression. Here is a link about herbs for
feline kidney disease that can help with these symptoms: Herbs That Cure or Ease Symptoms of Feline CRF
The elevated phosphorus level also stimulates the parathyroid gland to respond by removing calcium from
the bones in an attempt to bring the serum calcium to phosphorus ratio back into balance.
This overactivity can lead to very brittle, fragile bones.
Calcitriol, a synthetic form of vitamin D3, can be used to reduce the function of the parathyroid gland and
to increase the amount of calcium absorbed from the intestinal tract. Do not be misled into believing that
you can correct this imbalance by adding any kind of calcium supplement or plain vitamin D to your cats diet.
First of all, because kidney function has been compromised, they can no longer properly assimilate
[put into a usable form by the body] vitamin D or various forms of calcium. Not to mention, serum [blood]
calcium/phos levels, need to be monitored closely by a veterinarian in order to properly determine which one
is out of balance. A raised level of either, can mimic the same symptoms. See the link on hypercalcemia at
the bottom of this page for symptoms and a definition.
Renegel also known as Sevelemer, is a medication known as a non- illuminum based Phosphate Binder. Phosphate
binders are given to the cat with meals and binds to the phosphorus in the food, preventing the body from
absorbing the phosphorus. According to some research results I discovered on the internet, Sevelemer
is the one phophate binder that has been clinically shown to also help to inhibit hyperparathyroidism in rats.
It also indirectly helps to reduce stomach acid as do all phosphate binders. Famotidine is another drug specifically
used to reduce stomach acid, however, it does not act as a phosphate binder. I also have not personally done any research on this drug.
Because hyperparathyroidism is rarely reversable, it is very important to prevent its progression as early as possible.
Sevelemer in my opinion, is one of the best phosphate binders on the market.
It does not have an aluminum base which has been proven to cause alzheimer's. It also doesn't have any calcium in it which
could lead to hypercalcemia. Click on this link for more info. hypercalcemia.