Radioactive Iodine Treatment

We can assist you and your feline, even if you are not a client of ours.

Say Goodbye to the Pill Battle – and Hello to a Healthier Cat!

Got a hyperthyroid cat who’s not a fan of pills? We get it! Radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment is a one-and-done, stress-free way to treat overactive thyroid.

We’re proud to be one of only eight clinics in New Zealand offering this gold-standard treatment, which permanently cures hyperthyroidism in nearly all cats who receive it. No daily meds, no surgery, just one little injection and your kitty is on the road to feeling great again. It targets the problem at the source, and most cats only need it once! Best of all, it helps your furry friend get back to being their happy, zoomy, snack-demanding self in no time.

Why Choose Radioactive Iodine (I-131) Treatment for Your Hyperthyroid Cat?

If your cat has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, radioactive iodine (I-131) is a safe, effective, and permanent treatment option. It works by selectively targeting and destroying the overactive thyroid tissue—without the need for surgery or daily medication. One simple injection is usually all it takes, and most cats are cured with just one treatment. It’s stress-free for you and your cat, and it helps them get back to feeling like themselves again—happier, healthier, and full of life!

If your cat is of the very small minority of patients that relapses within 1 year of treatment we will repeat the procedure at no charge.

Is Radioactive Iodine the right choice for MY cat?

Almost all cats are suitable for I-131 treatment, with the exception of super anti-social cats who can’t be handled posing a risk to the nursing staff who would look after them, and those that are too medically unstable to be left unsupervised for large parts of the day. Common reasons for owners choosing this treatment option for their cats are difficulty in giving daily tablets or reluctance to have a surgical operation, reactions to medication or difficulty in adequately controlling the thyroid levels with medication. In reality though, I-13I treatment should be considered for all suitable cats as the first choice as it’s safe, painless and almost always permanent! This means it also usually works out cheaper than medical management in the long run which is great news.

What does it involve?

It’s surprisingly simple! Radioactive iodine treatment involves just one tiny injection under the skin—kind of like a routine vaccine. That’s it! Best of all, it’s painless and has no side effects. After the injection, your cat will need to stay with us for 7 days while they’re emitting a small amount of radiation. Think of it as a little “staycation” with room service, cosy bedding, and plenty of peace and quiet. Once they’re safely ready to go home, they’ll be on their way back to you for a fresh start with no pills and no stress!