I-131 Radioactive Therapy for Feline Hyperthyroidism

I-131 therapy, also known as radioactive iodine therapy, is a highly effective and specialized treatment for feline hyperthyroidism, a common endocrine disorder in older cats. This therapy utilizes the radioactive isotope iodine-131 to target and treat overactive thyroid tissue, providing a non-invasive and comprehensive solution.

I-131 is administered by Boreal Veterinary Centre's Internal Medicine Specialists in our radiation-shielded nuclear medicine ward. All technologists and doctors involved in the care of your pet have been trained and certified in the use of nuclear medicine, and our facility has been approved by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.

Procedure Overview:

• Patient Evaluation: Before initiating I-131 therapy, a thorough veterinary examination is conducted to confirm the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. This may include blood tests, thyroid hormone level assessments, and imaging studies.
• Customized Dosing: Each cat's dosage is carefully calculated based on individual factors such as size of the thyroid, severity of hyperthyroidism, and thyroid hormone level. This individualized approach aims to ensure optimal effectiveness while minimizing potential side effects.
• Radioactive Isotope Administration: Iodine-131 is administered orally, typically as a single, well-tolerated dose. The isotope is selectively taken up by the overactive thyroid tissue, allowing for precise targeting of the affected cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissues.
• Isolation Period: After receiving the radioactive dose, the cat is temporarily isolated in a specially designed facility to ensure the safe containment and gradual decay of the emitted radiation. This isolation period is usually short, lasting approximately 3 to 7 days, during which the cat receives care and monitoring twice a day. More aggressive care is not possible when the cat is in isolation.
• Post-Treatment Monitoring: Following the isolation period, the cat undergoes post-treatment assessments, including thyroid hormone level checks, to confirm the success of the therapy. Additional treatments may be administered if necessary, though 95% of cats experience a complete resolution of hyperthyroidism after a single I-131 treatment.

Benefits of I-131 Therapy:

• High Success Rate: I-131 therapy boasts a remarkably high success rate, with most cats experiencing long-term remission or cure of hyperthyroidism after a single treatment.
• Non-Invasive and Painless: Unlike surgical interventions or lifelong medication, I-131 therapy offers a non-invasive, one-time treatment option that eliminates the need for daily medication and its potential side effects.
• Improved Quality of Life: With the restoration of normal thyroid function, cats often exhibit improvements in behavior, weight management, and overall well-being, leading to an enhanced quality of life in their senior years.

I-131 therapy stands as a cutting-edge and compassionate solution for feline hyperthyroidism, providing a safe and efficient way to address this common health concern in older cats. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian to determine the most suitable treatment plan for individual feline patients.