Radioactive iodine
Information for veterinarians
Referral information for radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment of feline hyperthyroidism at The Narre Warren Vet.
Referring a hyperthyroid cat
We welcome referrals from veterinary colleagues for radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment of feline hyperthyroidism. We work closely with referring vets and will keep you informed from admission through to discharge. Your client remains your client for all ongoing care.
Suitable candidates
- Hyperthyroidism confirmed on blood testing (total T4, with free T4 where results are equivocal)
- Cats otherwise stable enough to tolerate several days of hospitalisation in isolation
- Cats able to eat and groom independently
Recommended work up
- Recent haematology, biochemistry and total T4
- Urinalysis with urine specific gravity
- Blood pressure measurement
- Thoracic radiographs or echocardiography if a significant murmur, arrhythmia or signs of heart failure are present
Anti-thyroid medication and diet
Methimazole or carbimazole is generally stopped before treatment so it does not reduce radioiodine uptake, and iodine restricted diets must also be discontinued well in advance. Please contact us for our current protocol and timing before stopping medication.
Kidney function
Hyperthyroidism can mask underlying chronic kidney disease. A medical trial with anti-thyroid medication before referral can help reveal the post-treatment kidney values. We are happy to discuss borderline cases.
After treatment
Cats are discharged once radiation levels fall below regulatory limits, with written home care instructions for the owner. We recommend repeating total T4 and renal values at around one and three months after treatment, and we will send a full report to you on discharge.
Talk to our team
Questions about radioactive iodine treatment? We are happy to help.
Radioactive iodine
Overview
Information for cat owners
Information for vets
Enquiry form
Refer a patient
Use our enquiry form and select “Veterinarian”, or call us to discuss a case. Please send recent clinical history and blood results with the referral.
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