A calm cat receiving care during I-131 treatment at Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock, Texas — I-131 radioiodine therapy offers a highly effective treatment option for cats diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common endocrine conditions in older cats. If your cat has been diagnosed, you may be exploring treatment options that are both effective and long-lasting.

For pet owners in Austin, Round Rock, and Central Texas, one of the most advanced and definitive treatments available is I-131 radioiodine therapy, offered at Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock.

What Is Hyperthyroidism in Cats?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid glands produce excess thyroid hormone, which speeds up your cat’s metabolism.

This condition is most commonly seen in middle-aged to senior cats and can affect multiple organ systems if left untreated.

Common Signs of Hyperthyroidism

Cats with hyperthyroidism may show a range of symptoms, including:

Weight loss despite increased appetite
Hyperactivity or restlessness
Increased thirst and urination
Vomiting or diarrhea
Poor coat condition
Rapid heart rate

Because these signs can develop gradually, hyperthyroidism is often diagnosed through routine bloodwork.

Treatment Options for Hyperthyroidism

There are several ways to manage hyperthyroidism, but they differ significantly in effectiveness and long-term outcomes.

A veterinarian examining a cat while speaking with its owner during a consultation in Texas — Hyperthyroidism is commonly diagnosed in older cats through veterinary exams and bloodwork.

Medication

Oral medications can help control thyroid hormone levels but:

Require daily, lifelong administration
Do not cure the condition
May have side effects

Prescription Diet

Special diets can help regulate thyroid levels, but they require strict adherence and are not suitable for all households.

Surgery

Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is possible but less commonly performed due to:

Anesthesia risks
Potential complications
Limited availability

I-131 Radioiodine Therapy (Gold Standard)

I-131 therapy is considered the gold standard treatment because it:

Targets and destroys abnormal thyroid tissue
Spares healthy tissue
Typically requires only one treatment
Has a high success rate
Does not require ongoing medication

How I-131 Treatment Works

I-131 is a radioactive form of iodine that is selectively absorbed by overactive thyroid cells.

Once administered:

The abnormal thyroid tissue absorbs the iodine
Radiation destroys the overactive cells
Thyroid hormone levels return to normal over time

Healthy tissues are largely unaffected, making this a precise and effective treatment.

Where to Get I-131 Treatment Near Austin

The reception and waiting area at Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock, Texas — Sage Veterinary Imaging serves veterinarians and pet owners throughout Austin, Round Rock, and Central Texas.

Veterinary clinics throughout Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Leander, Kyle, and Buda often refer hyperthyroid cats to Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock for I-131 therapy.

The facility is conveniently located just north of Austin along the Interstate 35 corridor, making it accessible for pet owners across Central Texas.

What to Expect During Treatment

I-131 therapy requires a short hospital stay due to radiation safety protocols.

A typical process includes:

Pre-treatment evaluation
Your cat undergoes testing to confirm they are a good candidate.

I-131 injection
A single injection of radioactive iodine is administered.

Monitoring period
Your cat stays at the facility for several days while radiation levels safely decrease.

Discharge and home care
Once safe, your cat returns home with simple, temporary precautions.

Most cats tolerate the process very well and do not require anesthesia.

Benefits of I-131 Therapy

Many pet owners choose I-131 because it offers:

A curative treatment in most cases
No need for daily medication
Minimal side effects
Long-term cost effectiveness compared to lifelong medication

For many cats, this treatment restores normal thyroid function and significantly improves quality of life.

A Collaborative Approach to Care

Sage Veterinary Imaging works closely with veterinarians across Central Texas to provide I-131 therapy as part of a coordinated care plan.

The imaging team:

Communicates directly with your veterinarian
Provides updates throughout treatment
Ensures a smooth transition back to your primary care provider

Your veterinarian remains responsible for follow-up care and long-term monitoring.

Helping Austin-Area Cats Thrive

Hyperthyroidism can impact your cat’s health and comfort—but with the right treatment, it is highly manageable and often curable.

At Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock, I-131 radioiodine therapy provides a safe, effective solution for cats across the Austin area.

If your cat has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, advanced treatment is available nearby to help restore their health and quality of life.

Cat Hyperthyroidism Treatment in Round Rock and Austin, Texas