Hospital celebrates milestone in radioiodine treatment

The Hospital for Small Animals is celebrating treating its 500th cat with hyperthyroidism with radioiodine (I131) therapy. 

The service, established in 2008, is one of only a handful in the UK offering the option of treatment with doses of radioiodine 131, known as I131, to destroy overactive thyroid cells in cats.

Marty, a 15-year-old domestic shorthair, is doing well following his treatment, and is back at home enjoying time with his family.

Exceptional care

Marty was referred to the Hospital after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism by his primary vet. His owner opted for radioiodine treatment for him, rather than life-long medication or surgery. 

The Hospital’s I131 service is a bespoke treatment facility led by RCVS Specialists who are experts in feline hyperthyroidism. 

Marty, like all cats being treated for hyperthyroidism using I131, was kept in isolation for the first three days following his treatment, until the radiation from the iodine doses receded. He was then moved into the Hospital’s dedicated feline ward for the remainder of his stay. 

The feline ward features large split-level accommodation and plenty of enrichment, including calming music, pheromone diffusers and care from dedicated feline nurses, ensuring cats experience a calm, comfortable stay. 

Clients receive regular updates and photos of their cats during their stay, which can be as short as seven days after receiving treatment.

Marty settled well in the unit and quickly became a firm favourite with the team who cared for him.

Hormone overproduction

Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in middle-aged and older cats, affecting around 12 per cent of the UK cat population. 

It is caused by overactive or enlarged thyroid glands producing excessive thyroid hormones, and can lead to weight loss, increased appetite and thirst, hyperactivity, poor coat condition and raised blood pressure. 

Left untreated, it can significantly increase the risk of serious complications including stroke and heart disease.

Preferred treatment

Radioiodine is widely considered the treatment of choice for feline hyperthyroidism, over 95 per cent of cats have resolution of hyperthyroidism; without the need for anaesthesia or the ongoing commitment of daily tablets.

The treatment is given as a single dose - either by subcutaneous injection or oral capsule - and is painless. The iodine concentrates in thyroid tissue and emits beta-radiation, treating the overactive cells. 

Importantly, it also treats ectopic thyroid tissue, which can be difficult to identify or remove surgically.

If you have a cat with hyperthyroidism you would like to refer for radioiodine therapy, please contact the Hospital for Small Animals at HfSAreception@ed.ac.uk   

Related Links

Hospital for Small Animals' Radioiodine Service webpage