Medical Treatments – Anti-thyroid drugs are given in pill form two or three times a day. These drugs are usually effective but may be needed for a lifetime, and your cat may experience various reactions. These may include loss of appetitite, vomiting, depression, bleeding tendencies, skin rashes, facial swelling and itching.

Surgical Treatment – The removal of the thyroid gland is straightforward in most cases but there is added risk because of the general anesthesia. Complications may occur as older cats may have heart, kidney or other problems. Loss of the parathyroid gland can cause disorders of calcium metabolism.

Radioiodine I-131 – GSVS is pleased to offer this treatment option. It is safe and effective with cure rates of approximately 95-98% with one treatment. If necessary, cats can receive a second treatment. A single injection is administered subcutaneously by a licensed veterinarian and quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. The iodine is taken into the thyroid gland and incorporated into thyroxine. Most cats have normal hormone levels with a week or two of treatment. Hospitalization is required under the radioisotope permit issued by the NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission), and at GSVS, we provide 72 hour release. The patient is monitored by our team of veterinarians and support staff.