Thyroidectomy and Parathyroidectomy

Thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy are surgical procedures performed to treat diseases of the thyroid or parathyroid glands in pets. These small glands play a critical role in regulating metabolism and calcium levels, and conditions affecting them can have significant health consequences if left untreated.

Understanding the Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands

  • The thyroid glands regulate metabolism and are most commonly affected by tumors or hyperthyroidism (especially in cats).
  • The parathyroid glands control calcium balance in the body and may develop adenomas or hyperplasia that cause dangerously elevated calcium levels.

Why Surgery Is Recommended Surgery may be recommended for:
  • Thyroid tumors
  • Feline hyperthyroidism when medical or radioactive therapy is not an option
  • Parathyroid tumors or adenomas causing high blood calcium levels
  • Clinical signs related to abnormal hormone or calcium levels

Care at Peak Pet Urgent Care

At Peak Pet Urgent Care, we are equipped to perform thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy procedures on-site. Our medical team has experience managing complex endocrine conditions and provides attentive monitoring before, during, and after surgery.

We offer:

  • In-house diagnostics and imaging to support timely decision-making
  • Close post-operative monitoring, including calcium level checks when indicated
  • Advanced anesthesia and monitoring tailored to each patient
  • Clear communication with your primary care veterinarian to ensure continuity of care

Our goal is to provide high-quality surgical care in an urgent care setting while keeping your pet’s safety, comfort, and long-term outcome as our top priorities.

Pre-Surgical Evaluation Before surgery, pets typically undergo:
  • Bloodwork to assess organ function and hormone or calcium levels
  • Imaging such as ultrasound or CT to evaluate the affected glands
  • Blood pressure measurement and cardiac evaluation when indicated
These steps help ensure surgery is as safe and effective as possible.

What the Surgery Involves

Both procedures are performed under general anesthesia

Thyroidectomy

  • Removal of one or both abnormal thyroid glands
  • Careful preservation of nearby nerves and parathyroid tissue when possible
  • Performed with meticulous technique due to the sensitive structures in the neck

Parathyroidectomy

  • Removal of the abnormal parathyroid gland(s)
  • Normal parathyroid tissue is preserved whenever possible
  • The goal is to normalize calcium levels while avoiding complications

Most pets remain hospitalized for 24–72 hours after surgery for close monitoring.

During hospitalization, we monitor:

  • Pain and comfort
  • Calcium levels (especially after parathyroid surgery)
  • Appetite and overall recovery

Your pet will be sent home with:

  • Pain medications to ensure comfort
  • Antibiotic medication to prevent infection
  • Instructions for incision care and restricted activity
  • Guidance on monitoring urinary output and overall recovery

  • Keep the incision clean and dry
  • Prevent licking or scratching at the incision
  • An E-collar (cone) must be worn at all times when not directly supervised
  • Sutures or staples are typically removed in 12–14 days

After parathyroidectomy, some pets may experience low calcium levels as the body adjusts. This is closely monitored and may require:
  • Temporary calcium supplementation
  • Follow-up bloodwork

Signs of low calcium include seizures, tremors, restlessness, muscle twitching, or weakness. Immediate veterinary attention is required if these occur.

  • Many pets do very well after thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy
  • Hormone or calcium levels often return to normal or significantly improve
  • Long-term outcome depends on the underlying condition and pathology results

Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice:
  • Swelling, redness, or discharge at the incision
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Lethargy, weakness, or tremors
  • Decreased appetite or vomiting

Our goal with thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy is to restore normal hormone and calcium balance while ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort. If you have questions about these procedures or whether surgery is the right option for your pet, please don’t hesitate to contact us.