For Veterinarians

If your client would like to pursue iodine treatment we will provide a treatment plan which will include dates for tests, when to come off medication (if applicable) and when the treatment date is scheduled.

HyperT masks true renal function. When possible, we would like to obtain a better understanding of how the kidneys are functioning. This can be achieved by performing a trial with any of these products: oral or transdermal tapazole or y/d trial. The length of time required for a trial is determined by T4, length of time on medication and current kidney enzymes.

Factors that can affect a trial not being performed are:

• Allergic RX.

• Owner compliance.

• Inability to provide pills for various reasons.

• Multi-cat household.

Mandatory Tests

Tests required are determined on a case-by-case basis and will be provided following a review of the cat's medical records and laboratory results.

Rabies vaccination must be up to date to board at our facility. If it is overdue, please administer at least 7 days prior to their Radioactive Iodine Treatment appointment.

Additional Tests

Additional tests may be recommended based on above results.

We stand behind our services so if a top up dose is required it will be provided at no additional cost to the client. The guarantee is based on the owner having two follow up T4 checks from a reference laboratory:

• First check at ~14 weeks post treatment. Please include a basic chemistry panel (renal values at minimum unless stated otherwise in the Discharge Summary. 

• Second check at ~10-12 months post treatment.

These follow up checks are at the owners’ expense.

Length of Stay

Based on the T4 value and the associated dose required - either a same-day treatment or a 1 – 7 day stay.

There are some cases where the stay may be longer however we would know this prior to treatment.

Efficacy

Most cats respond to a single dose of I-131, however, about 5% of cats require re-treatment with a higher dose of I-131 to achieve euthyroid values. There is also about 1-2% of cats where radioactive iodine is not effective at all. In these kitties, the thyroid tissue stops absorbing Iodine and will not destroy the overactive thyroid cells. Most of the overactive thyroid tissue will be destroyed within 3 months of I-131, although some cats do have an additional effect seen up to 6 – 9 months after treatment.

We have seen that cats who have excessive drinking/urination or that have concurrent severe intestinal disease are more likely to require a second I-131 treatment. Top up dose/s are provided at no cost to the owner.

*Some exceptions may apply.

Other

It is very important that your patient is feeling well when coming in for I-131 therapy. It is imperative that you let us know if your patient is feeling unwell – decreased appetite, V+/D+ etc – before they come for their I-131 appointment.

Flushable litter and reducing close exposure time must be implemented at home for 2 weeks following treatment. We have more information about home care on our website. We will also explain this information to your client.