Thyroid disorders of small ruminants are particularly problematic to the health and performance of these animals. The pathogenesis and therapeutic management of thyroid disorders, particularly hypo- and hyperthyroid diseases in sheep and goats, are recent knowledge discussed in this review article. Congenital or acquired hypothyroidism usually causes growth rate impairment, disruption of reproduction, and wool/hair abnormalities due to an excess of iodine or a goitrogen imbalance. Conversely, though rarer, hyperthyroidism is capable of causing metabolic disorders. Because thyroid function varies from species to species, diagnosis needs to be substantiated by a combination of clinical examination and analysis of hormones. Various treatment procedures, ranging from replacement of hormones and supplementation with iodine to remedial treatment of the causative nutritional or environmental defect, are available. In maximizing small ruminant population production and health, this review highlights the importance of proper diagnosis of thyroid disorder, including histopathology, serum thyroid hormone assay, radiographic, and iodine assessment test. It further highlights the therapeutic strategies such as antithyroid medications, beta blockers, iodine, T4, and selenium supplementation. Future research should focus on clarifying the exact causes and enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic methods for these economically important livestock species.

To Cite This Article: Alharbi YMA, 2025. A compressive review of pathophysiology mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment approaches for thyroid disorders in small ruminants. Pak Vet J, 45(2): 462-474. http://dx.doi.org/10.29261/pakvetj/2025.188