Radioactive iodine therapy for feline hyperthyroidism achieves cure in over 95% of cases with a single treatment, offering the best long-term welfare outcome of all available options.
Radioactive iodine therapy represents the welfare-optimal treatment for feline hyperthyroidism in cats with good overall health and adequate kidney function — achieving cure with a single procedure and eliminating the daily medication burden and side effect risk of lifelong methimazole. The isolation period is the primary welfare cost: 1-4 weeks of separation from home and family is stressful for cats who form strong territorial and social attachments. Welfare-centered I-131 facilities minimize isolation welfare costs through enriched environments, familiar-scented bedding, and compassionate staff interaction within safety protocols. The long-term welfare gain of cure versus managed disease justifies the acute isolation cost for most suitable candidates.