i-131 has become the preferred treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats. In the majority of cases, the treatment is more cost effective and suitable for your cat than alternative medications.
Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in older cats caused by an overactive thyroid gland. The excess production of the thyroid hormone causes symptoms like weight loss, increased appetite, restlessness, and poor coat condition in cats. Left untreated, the disease can strain your cat's heart, kidneys and other organs. Thankfully it is a condition that can be well managed or better yet, cured.
While medications or specialized diets can MANAGE the condition, i-131 therapy offers a CURATIVE solution in approximately 95% of cases. This safe, pain-free treatment has minimal side effects and targets only the overactive thyroid cells, preserving normal thyroid function. The vast majority of cats treated with i-131 can enjoy a normal, medication-free life afterwards.
Contact us today to discuss getting your hyperthyroid cat treated with i-131 therapy at our high quality facilities or contact your regular vet and ask for a referral.
What happens during the treatment?
Your cat receives a small injection of I-131 under the skin, similar to a vaccination, They’ll then stay with us, in an isolation ward, for the first 7 days after treatment to allow the radioactivity to decrease before they can safely rejoin your family. We have a specialised isolation facility that boasts spacious, well ventilated kennels to keep your cat safe and comfortable during their treatment. Our staff are well trained to provide your cat with the best care during their stay.
How does the treatment work?
The thyroid is the only organ in the body that uses iodine, making radioactive iodine highly targeted and safe. Once injected, it travels directly to the thyroid and is absorbed primarily by the overactive cells. These overworked cells are destroyed by the radiation, while the healthy, dormant thyroid cells absorb little to none of the iodine, allowing them to remain intact and resume normal function after treatment.
Will my cat need anaesthesia for I-131?
No, the treatment is painless and doesn’t require sedation or anaesthesia. If your cat gets stressed coming to the vets, we recommend giving them pre-visit medications to lessen their anxiety, please discuss options for this with us or directly with your regular vet clinic.
What care is needed when my cat comes home after I-131 treatment?
Minimal changes would need to be made to your home. You’ll need to follow some safety precautions for about 2 weeks once your cat gets home, such as limiting close contact with them and some precautions around cleaning their litter. We will provide you with a full set of easy-to-follow instructions during your cat’s admit consult. We also offer extended boarding options if you are concerned about having your cat at home after their treatment.
Are there risks with I-131 treatment?
Side effects are rare, but some cats may develop mild hypothyroidism, if there isn’t enough normal thyroid cells left, which can usually be easily managed. This is often a temporary problem if it did occur.
Does i-131 affect my cat’s kidneys?
No, however it is worth noting that some cats that have hyperthyroidism also concurrently have kidney disease. The thyroid hormone excess elevates blood pressure, thus increasing blood flow to the kidneys. This increase in blood flow can “mask” underlying kidney disease in your cat’s blood tests. Once their thyroid levels normalise, pre-existing kidney issues may become more apparent.
My cat has kidney disease, isn’t it better to leave the hyperthyroidism untreated?
No, the increased blood flow to the kidneys caused by the hyperthyroidism places additional strain on the kidneys causing them to deteriorate faster. It is better to treat the hyperthyroidism and also manage the kidney disease.
How much does I-131 treatment cost?
Currently the cost at Takurua Vets is $1500 for i-131 treatment. This includes an admit consult with our Vet, your cat’s treatment and 7 day isolation stay in our hospital. It does not include blood tests as these would typically be done at your usual vet clinic.
Can my cat have this treatment done at my regular vet clinic?
Vet clinics require special facilities and licensing to administer i-131. Vets and their support staff also require special training to perform radiation therapy safely. There are only a hand full of clinics in New Zealand that offer this treatment which is why you may have been referred to us by your regular vet.
Can all cats with hyperthyroidism receive I-131?
Most cats are good candidates, but a full health assessment will determine if I-131 is suitable for your cat. Please get in touch with us if you would like to discuss whether your cat is a good candidate for i-131 therapy.
Will my cat’s behaviour change after treatment?
Most cats feel better and return to their usual behaviour as their thyroid levels normalise.
What if this treatment isn’t effective in my cat?
Unfortunately a small percentage of cases will, for various reasons, fail to respond to treatment. Follow up blood tests 4-6 weeks after treatment will determine if the treatment was a success. Your vet will be able to guide you to make the best decision for your cat in these situations. A second round of I-131 therapy, medication, diet or other management options may be considered where treatment wasn’t successful.
Is I-131 treatment available for dogs or other animals?
I-131 is primarily used for treating hyperthyroidism in cats. While it can technically be used for dogs or other animals, it isn’t typically practical and alternative treatments are better suited to these species. i-131 is also used to treat hyperthyroidism in humans.
