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Question:

Methimazole vs Hills y/d for 14 yo cat

I’m really hoping for some advice or personal experiences here. My 14-year-old cat, Whiskers, was recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and the vet laid out two main treatment options for us: the medication methimazole or switching him to Hill's y/d diet. I’m feeling pretty overwhelmed trying to make the right choice for him. Whiskers has always been my little shadow, even more so now that he’s getting older, and I just want to make sure I’m doing what’s best for his health and quality of life. The vet explained that methimazole is a medication that can control the thyroid levels, but I’ve heard mixed things about potential side effects. On the other hand, the Hill’s y/d seems like a simpler change, but I’m worried about getting it just right since he’s a picky eater with his dry food. Has anyone here been through this with their cats? What was your experience like with either option? Any tips or insight would mean the world to me!

Answer:

Hi there! It sounds like you’re exploring options for managing your 14-year-old cat's hyperthyroidism. Both Methimazole and Hill's y/d diet are common treatments, each with its own benefits. Methimazole works by reducing thyroid hormone production and is available as a pill, liquid, or even a gel you can apply to the ear. It's effective for many cats, but can sometimes cause side effects like vomiting, lethargy, or changes in blood cell counts.



On the other hand, Hill's y/d is a prescription diet designed to control hyperthyroidism through low iodine content. It's a non-invasive option, but your cat must eat only this diet, without other foods or treats, to be effective. Some cats might not take to the change easily, so monitoring intake is important.



At home, be vigilant for symptoms like weight loss, increased thirst or urination, vomiting, or behavior changes. These could mean the condition is not well-controlled or there's an adverse reaction. Keep an eye on overall quality of life too.



Since each option has its pros and cons, it might be helpful to discuss this further with a vet. Consider booking a video consult with us here at Dial A Vet. We can tailor advice to your cat’s specific needs and help you decide the best path forward.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 21, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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