Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists (GCVS)

What is Hyperthyroidism in Cats?

Hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in senior cats, resulting from an overactive thyroid gland that produces too much thyroid hormone. These hormones can lead to several health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, weight loss, and gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing hyperthyroidism.

At Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, we specialize in I-131 radioactive iodine therapy, also known as I-131 treatment, which is a fast and effective option for cats suffering from hyperthyroidism. We are among the few hospitals that can offer I-131 therapy in Houston, which boasts a cure rate of over 95%, making it the preferred choice for most patients.

Why Choose I-131 Treatment for Hyperthyroidism?

Radioactive iodine therapy (I-131) is highly recommended because it noninvasively targets overactive thyroid tissue, no matter where it is in the body. Unlike surgery or medications like Methimazole, iodine therapy offers a permanent cure with rare side effects and typically requires only one dose to return your pet’s thyroid function to normal.

Benefits of I-131 Treatment:

• Non-invasive

• Permanent solution in over 95% of cases

• Minimal side effects

• Only requires one dose in most cases

» How Does I-131 Treatment Work?

By administering a small subcutaneous injection of radioactive iodine that targets and destroys hyperactive thyroid cells while leaving healthy tissues unharmed. At GCVS, our experts use nuclear scintigraphy to tailor the exact dose needed for your cat’s unique case of hyperthyroidism.