Feline Hyperthyroidism

Southeast Veterinary Specialists is pleased to announce that we are licensed to treat feline hyperthyroidism with I-131.  Feline hyperthyroidism is a common disease affecting geriatric cats. Treatment options include methimazole (Tapazole), surgery, or radioactive iodine (I-131). Radioactive iodine is considered the best option for definitive treatment, however it is highly regulated and not readily available in all areas. This treatment option was not available in the New Orleans area until now.

Cases are seen through our Internal Medicine service to determine if they meet the criteria for treatment. If so, they are treated and hospitalized in our isolated radioactive iodine treatment ward. No visitation is allowed while hospitalized. The anticipated hospitalization period is 1 week, however some cats may require longer. The treatment is a simple, painless, subcutaneous injection that is given once. A small percentage of cats may require a second treatment.