Radioiodine Therapy

Riverview Animal Health Centre is the only veterinary hospital in New Brunswick that offers radioiodine therapy for hyperthyroid cats.

Cats, like other mammals including humans, have a pair of thyroid glands located in the neck area. These glands control your cat’s metabolic rate by producing the hormone thyroxine (T4). Hyperthyroidism occurs in many older cats when benign (not cancerous) growths in the thyroid glands start producing excessive amounts of thyroxine. Excessive levels of thyroxine can be damaging to many body systems, including the heart.

The most common signs of hyperthyroidism are weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, increased urination, increased activity, shedding or changes in hair coat, vocalization, agitation, and panting. Some cats may become lethargic and have poor appetites.

How does the treatment work?

Treatment is simple – a single subcutaneous injection, no pilling, no anesthesia, no serious complications or side effects. Limited monitoring will be required after treatment, and in the majority of cases, no ongoing therapy will be needed. Your cat will stay with us for 4 days, to ensure that the majority of the radioactive waste is expelled from their system before they go home.

Is radioiodine therapy effective?

Radioiodine therapy is a highly effective treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats, with a 95-98% cure rate. The procedure is safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects.

How much does it cost?

When you compare the cost of treating hyperthyroidism in your cat over the years, including bloodwork, the cost of Radioiodine is very reasonable. Just ask our team about the benefits of Radioiodine therapy – a number of team members have had their cats cured with this treatment.

If you are a referring vet, please view our Radioiodine therapy documents. For any inquiries, please contact our I-131 team, led by Dr. Christine Roussel, and supported by four Registered Veterinary Technicians with a combined experience of over 46 years.