Please Note: The radioactive iodine remains on back order at this time. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. The service is currently not maintaining a waiting list.
Hyperthyroidism is the most common hormonal disorder affecting older cats. Radioactive iodine therapy is a safe, effective treatment option for cats with hyperthyroidism.
The therapy is a safe and highly effective alternative to surgery or medication. The injection is similar to a vaccination; the radioactive iodine is taken up into the thyroid gland where it destroys hyper-functioning tissue with no risk to healthy tissue.
Hyperthyroidism is caused by an overactive thyroid gland resulting in excess production of thyroid hormones responsible for regulating metabolism, body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate and gastrointestinal function.
In most cases, the abnormality is linked to a benign growth on the thyroid gland; only about three per cent of hyperthyroid cats have a cancerous thyroid tumour.
Symptoms include: weight loss; increased appetite and drinking; increased urination; increased activity levels, restlessness or nervousness; vomiting; increased vocalization, and an unkempt coat. Left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure that can cause further damage to the eyes, kidneys and brain.
OVC is happy to be able to offer radioiodine therapy for the treatment of hyperthyroid cats.The radioiodine therapy service is located in new state-of-the-art facilities located in the OVC’s Mona Campbell Centre for Animal Cancer.
If you suspect that your cat has hyperthyroidism, contact your family veterinarian for an initial assessment. Your veterinarian can contact OVC to help determine if radioactive iodine is the best treatment choice for your cat and arrange a referral.