Radioiodine treatment is the gold standard for feline hyperthyroidism, offering a curative, single-treatment option with minimal side effects. Welfare considerations around access, isolation, and kidney monitoring are important.
Radioiodine offers the best long-term welfare outcome for most hyperthyroid cats by providing a cure rather than lifelong medical management. The welfare cost of the isolation period must be weighed against the welfare benefit of permanent resolution. Providing enrichment during isolation, maintaining familiar items, and monitoring for signs of isolation stress minimises the welfare impact of the treatment period.