Most cases of hypothyroidism are caused by lymphocytic thyroiditis (autoimmune thyroiditis). Idiopathic (of no known cause) is another, rarer, cause of thyroid malfunction. Although lymphocytic thyroiditis is known to be hereditary, the cause of both types is unknown.
The most common symptoms include (%= approximate % of hypothyroid dogs that exhibit that symptom):
- High blood cholesterol 80%
- lethargy 70%
- hair loss 65%
- weight gain 60%
- poor coat condition; often brittle, excessive shedding 60%
- Anaemia 50%
- skin conditions 25%+
- irritability
Posted in: Health & Wellbeing, Thyroid