Companion Animals

Companion Cat Hyperthyroidism Radioiodine Treatment

Radioiodine treatment provides a curative option for feline hyperthyroidism with excellent welfare outcomes for most cats.

Key Facts

Radioiodine is considered the gold standard treatment for feline hyperthyroidism
A single injection cures approximately 95% of affected cats permanently
Cats require hospitalisation for radiation safety monitoring after treatment
Renal function must be assessed before treatment as hyperthyroid masking can reveal kidney disease

Welfare Considerations

Radioiodine offers permanent cure rather than lifelong medication management, representing a significant welfare improvement for cats tolerating daily tablet administration poorly. Careful pre-treatment screening ensures kidney welfare is protected post-treatment.

What You Can Do

Discuss radioiodine treatment with your vet if your cat has hyperthyroidism
Have renal function assessed before any hyperthyroid treatment decision
Monitor treated cats for signs of post-treatment hypothyroidism