
Among the various treatment options for hyperthyroidism in cats, radioactive iodine therapy is considered by many experts as the best treatment option. It works by destroying the tumor that is causing the hyperactivity of the thyroid gland without causing any damage to the tissues that surround the thyroid gland. However, it has its pros and cons which are important reasons for pet parents to learn more about the procedure and its implications.
Pros
- There is 95% success rate in the treatment of feline hyperthyroidism
- No serious side effects
- Cats for treatment don’t need to be placed under anesthesia.
Cons
- The procedure can be expensive
- It can only be done in facilities that are licensed and accredited to handle and inject radioactive substances. This may mean traveling to another state for a facility.
- While the radioactive substance don’t pose a risk to the cat, precaution must be observed for people who come into close contact with a cat that has undergone treatment. To prevent undue exposure of people, the cat is usually hospitalized for 3-5 days until the level of radiation has fallen to within safer limits.
If you have an y concerns or questions about your pet’s treatment regimen, don’t hesitate to talk to your vet Columbia, MD.