In cats, which non-GI disease is noted as causing GI signs?

In cats, which non-GI disease is noted as causing GI signs?

• A. Hyperthyroidism
• B. Addison's disease
• C. CKD
• D. Pancreatitis

Answer: (A)

Systemic diseases outside the GI tract can present with GI signs, because they alter overall physiology and organ function. In cats, hyperthyroidism is a classic example of a non-GI disease that commonly causes GI symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, often alongside weight loss despite increased appetite. The excess thyroid hormone raises metabolic rate and speeds up gut motility and secretions, which can irritate the GI tract and lead to these signs. The condition is also very common in older cats, making GI signs a frequent presenting feature. Other options less clearly fit this pattern. Addison’s disease and CKD can cause GI signs, but they are primarily diseases of the adrenal axis or kidneys, respectively, and not as characteristically defined by GI signs as a typical presenting feature. Pancreatitis targets a GI organ directly, so it’s not a non-GI systemic disease.

Systemic diseases outside the GI tract can present with GI signs, because they alter overall physiology and organ function. In cats, hyperthyroidism is a classic example of a non-GI disease that commonly causes GI symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, often alongside weight loss despite increased appetite. The excess thyroid hormone raises metabolic rate and speeds up gut motility and secretions, which can irritate the GI tract and lead to these signs. The condition is also very common in older cats, making GI signs a frequent presenting feature.

Other options less clearly fit this pattern. Addison’s disease and CKD can cause GI signs, but they are primarily diseases of the adrenal axis or kidneys, respectively, and not as characteristically defined by GI signs as a typical presenting feature. Pancreatitis targets a GI organ directly, so it’s not a non-GI systemic disease.