Smart IoT pet health monitoring collar enables early detection and effective treatment of hyperthyroidism in an asymptomatic cat
Burlington, MA (PRWEB) April 21, 2016
PetPace, the provider of an innovative IoT collar for remote real-time monitoring and analysis of pet vital signs and activity, today released the findings of a new medical case study. The feline hyperthyroidism case study, available for download here, documents in detail how the PetPace collar facilitated an early diagnosis and contributed to a favorable outcome of hyperthyroidism in a completely asymptomatic cat. Mya, a 14-year-old spayed female weighing 13lb, is an indoor-only, domestic shorthair cat who had no known medical problems. A routine screening initiated by Mya’s owner – a pet healthcare professional – showed values that raised concern. These included elevated pulse levels (average – 182; Max – 231; Min – 130) and low HRV (VVTI – 8.2). This finding prompted a thorough veterinary exam, which identified hyperthyroidism. Specifically, Mya’s bloodwork showed marked elevation of thyroid hormone (T4-12.4; normal range 0.8-4.7), and an elevated Red Blood Cell count (RBC-11.6; normal range 7.12-11.4). No other symptoms or problems were detected. Hyperthyroidism is a hormonal disorder caused by excess production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. It is a relatively common disease in older cats. Since thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and a wide variety of processes in the body, almost any organ can be affected and clinical signs vary. The disease is insidiously progressive, and is often detected and diagnosed only after serious alterations occur, such as weight loss and damage to internal organs. Following the detection of abnormal vitals by the PetPace collar and her veterinarian’s diagnosis, Mya was started on a course of oral medications, which effectively reduced her excess thyroid hormone levels. A 24-hour follow-up with the PetPace collar approximately three months later showed significant improvements in all parameters. “PetPace Enabled a Timely Diagnosis” In Mya’s case, data from the PetPace smart IoT collar resulted in an early diagnosis, effective treatment and a good outcome. PetPace provides early indications of changes in individual health status and alerts pet owners. This enables owners to consult their veterinarian to determine the root of the problem and provide timely relief before major complications develop. Many chronic diseases, including hyperthyroidism, progress slowly and insidiously over time. Symptoms are typically detected relatively late in the course of the disease, even by the most dedicated and astute owners. Early detection of chronic diseases is facilitated by non-specific changes in trends data and the analytics provided by PetPace. Dr. Cari Bowlin, Medical Director at Southern Tier Veterinary Associates noted: “The data provided by the PetPace collar was what prompted us to thoroughly examine a presumably healthy cat. It enabled a timely diagnosis of a serious disease and turned my staff into believers in this innovative technology.” Dr. Asaf Dagan, DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Canine and Feline practice), and PetPace’s Chief Veterinarian, added, “The PetPace collar enables clinics to run routine periodic screening of their clients, for example as part of an annual work-up. This can be invaluable in early detection of chronic diseases and – as exemplified in this case – can dramatically improve pet health.”
Link: http://www.wafb.com/story/31783173/petpace-enables-early-detection-of-feline-hyperthyroidism