Why is the hospitalization time only 48 hours?

A special benefit of the CTC is our short stay of 48 hours. We planned our program to minimize the time the patient spends away from home. There is no regulation for a treated cat to remain hospitalized for a specific time. The regulations state that patients must remain hospitalized until their radioactivity reaches a safe level that poses no danger to family members, other pets or to the general public.

State regulations are variable, e.g. New York and California are stricter than Florida with regard to the allowable exposure limits. All safety plans must meet state and federal regulations and are intended to protect members of the public from undue radiation exposure. The safety plan of a licensed facility, the dosage of radioactive iodine and the allowable exposure limit determine the length of stay. A rare patient will have to stay longer when they suffer from a malignancy and require a much higher dose of radioactivity to cure their disease.

Does the radioactive injection hurt?

No, it is painless and given under the skin. There is no local skin irritation.

Must I isolate my kitty when she (or he) comes home?

You cannot hold your cat on your lap for more than a few minutes/day when she first comes home. But she can stay in the room with you as long as she is at least 3 feet away from you.

What is the oldest cat you have treated?

20 years old

Why does Tapazole (methimazole) make my cat sick?

Tapazole has many side effects, including nausea, skin excoriations, autoimmune reactions, blood dyscrasias, vomiting and malaise. The side effects get worse when the dosage must be raised to control the disease.


My cat has diabetes, can it be treated?

Yes, we have treated many cats that are hyperthyroid and diabetic. We continue their prescribed diet and insulin during hospitalization.

My cat takes vitamin supplements and other medications. Will these interfere with the treatment?

Some can interfere, particularly those containing sea kelp with lots of iodide. These must be discontinued prior to and during treatment.

Most antibiotics do not interfere. Please discuss your cat's medications and supplements with the staff prior to admission and bring the containers with you at the time of admission.

What are any possible adverse effects or complications from radioactive iodine?

Hypothyroidism can occur in 1% of the patients that are more sensitive to the iodine treatment. These cats are placed on thyroid supplement and do well. Renal failure is seen in about 2% of the cases in which the kidneys are not perfused as well as they were in the cat with a racing heart and hypertension. The renal failure can be treated with diet or with fluids.

Where does my cat stay?

Your cat will be housed in a quiet, pleasant home-like environment in a completely separate part of the hospital. Live entertainment is provided by "Radar" our pet bird as well as rescued gerbils and/or fish.

May I visit my cat during the treatment?

No, once your cat has been treated, there can be no visitation except by authorized personnel. You may call us anytime for updates on your pet's condition.

If you have questions regarding the treatment of Feline Hyperthyroidism and how we can help your cat, visit the contacts page and fill out the Inquiry Form and a representative will contact you.