How Much Does Hypothyroidism Medication Cost For Dogs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Treatment is generally considered manageable as well.

Monthly expenses for medication tend to run in the $20 to $50 range

. Annually, dogs must be re-tested to ensure adequate dosing. Again, this tends to remain in the typically affordable $50 range.

How much does it cost to treat a dog with hypothyroidism?

in dogs treatment cost

Annual re-testing to ensure adequate treatment is in the $50-$100 range. Altogether, the cost of treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs may be

around $850 in the first year, and $300-$700 for each additional year of your dog's life

.

How much is levothyroxine in for a dog?

The usual dose in dogs is

0.1 mg per 10 pounds

. The usual dose in cats is 0.05 mg to 0.1 mg per cat. The dose of Levothyroxine Sodium Tablets (Thyro-Tabs) may require adjustment based on periodic blood tests to determine your pet's T4 level.

What medication is most often prescribed for hypothyroidism in dogs?

The most commonly recommended treatment is

oral synthetic thyroid hormone replacement called levothyroxine

(brand names Thyro-Tabs® Canine, Synthroid®).

How long do dogs live with hypothyroidism?

Pets treated for canine hypothyroidism have an excellent prognosis and their life expectancy is normal. Although it is not curable, it is a manageable disorder. Clinical abnormalities (flaky skin, hair loss, lethargy) may take

a few weeks to a few months

to resolve.

What are signs of hypothyroidism in dogs?

  • Unexplained weight gain.
  • Obesity.
  • Lack of energy, lethargy.
  • Mental dullness.
  • Cold intolerance.
  • Thinning coat.
  • Dull looking fur.
  • Dark pigmentation of the skin.

What happens if hypothyroidism is left untreated in dogs?

Untreated hypothyroidism can

shorten your dog's life span

, as nearly every organ in the body is affected by thyroid hormone and by the metabolism. Dogs with untreated hypothyroidism develop high cholesterol, decreased immune function, a slowed heart rate, and neuromuscular signs.

How long does it take for hypothyroid medication to work in dogs?

You will typically see improvement in your dog's activity level within

a few weeks

of starting thyroid hormone replacement therapy. However, hair regrowth takes longer, typically at least 4 months. Skin and ear problems also may take longer to clear up and require additional medications.

Is hypothyroidism in dogs fatal?


Hypothyroidism is easily treatable and not life-threatening as long as it's taken care of

. But if left untreated, the disease will negatively affect your dog's quality of life. The clinical way to treat hypothyroidism is with synthetic thyroid replacement medication to offset low thyroid function.

How expensive is levothyroxine?

About Levothyroxine

Generic levothyroxine is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans, but some pharmacy coupons or cash prices may be lower. The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of levothyroxine is

around $3.30

, 79% off the average retail price of $16.21.

How do you treat hypothyroidism in dogs naturally?

Does my dog need thyroid medication?


Thyroxine is a vitally essential medication if your dog has hypothyroidism

. 2 Hypothyroidism is a disease process associated with your dog's endocrine system. The endocrine system is responsible for creating hormones that control growth and development, metabolism, organs, and reproduction.

What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?

  • Fatigue.
  • Weight gain.
  • Weight loss.
  • Slowed heart rate.
  • Increased heart rate.
  • Sensitivity to heat.
  • Sensitivity to cold.

What do you feed a dog with hypothyroidism?

Sources such as

fish, poultry, and meat

are your best bets as they support lean muscle mass. Animal-based fats such as salmon oil and chicken fat will give him some much-needed energy. Essential fatty acids also address coat and skin issues your dog may have developed as a result of the hypothyroidism.

Can a dog have hypothyroidism and Cushing's?


Concurrent HAC and hypothyroidism in dogs is a rare occurrence

. The clinical signs of HAC and hypothyroidism may be similar (although hypothyroidism is not usually associated with polyuria and polydipsia), and it is thought that up to 50 per cent of dogs with HAC may have a below-reference range total T4.

Can dog food cause thyroid problems?


Pet food and treats that contain livestock gullets (meat from the throat region of an animal) have the potential to contain thyroid tissue and thyroid hormones

. Pets that eat food or treats containing thyroid hormones may develop hyperthyroidism.

What do you feed a dog with hyperthyroidism?


Fresh real food

is advised for dogs with hyperthyroidism, preferably lightly cooked or raw. This is the most natural diet for dogs.

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.