A cat resting comfortably during radioiodine therapy at Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock, Texas — Cats undergoing I-131 radioiodine therapy typically stay for a short monitoring period before returning home.

If your cat has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, you’re not alone. This condition is one of the most common diseases affecting older cats, and many pet owners across Central Texas are looking for a treatment that is both effective and long-lasting.

One of the most advanced and widely recommended options is I-131 radioiodine therapy, available at Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock. This treatment is often considered the gold standard for managing—and often curing—feline hyperthyroidism.

What Is Hyperthyroidism in Cats?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid glands produce too much thyroid hormone, causing the body’s metabolism to speed up.

Over time, this can affect multiple systems in your cat’s body, including the heart, kidneys, and digestive system.

Common Signs of Hyperthyroidism

Cats with hyperthyroidism may show:

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

Because symptoms can develop gradually, diagnosis is often made through routine bloodwork at your veterinarian’s office.

What Is I-131 Radioiodine Therapy?

Veterinary professionals monitoring and caring for a cat during a specialized treatment procedure — Dedicated veterinary teams closely monitor cats before, during, and after I-131 therapy.

I-131 therapy uses a radioactive form of iodine to treat overactive thyroid tissue.

After a single injection:

The abnormal thyroid cells absorb the iodine
Radiation selectively destroys the overactive tissue
Normal thyroid function is restored over time

This targeted approach allows treatment of the disease at its source—without surgery or daily medication.

Why I-131 Is Considered the Gold Standard

Compared to other treatment options, I-131 therapy offers several advantages:

Curative in most cases
No need for lifelong medication
Minimal side effects
Non-invasive (no surgery required)
High success rate

For many cats, it provides a permanent solution rather than ongoing management.

Where to Get I-131 Therapy in Central Texas

Reception area at Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock, Texas — Sage Veterinary Imaging provides advanced I-131 treatment for cats referred from across Central Texas.

Veterinary clinics throughout Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Leander, Kyle, and Buda regularly refer patients to Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock for radioiodine therapy.

Conveniently located along the Interstate 35 corridor, the facility serves cats across the entire Central Texas region.

What to Expect During Treatment

I-131 therapy involves a short, controlled hospital stay to meet radiation safety guidelines.

The process typically includes:

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

Single injection treatment
I-131 is administered via a simple injection.

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

Discharge and home care
Once safe, your cat returns home with temporary, straightforward care instructions.

Most cats tolerate the treatment well and resume normal behavior quickly after returning home.

Is I-131 Safe?

An orange cat resting comfortably in a veterinary care area during treatment — Most cats tolerate radioiodine therapy well and remain comfortable throughout their hospital stay.

Yes—when performed in a controlled veterinary setting, I-131 therapy is considered safe and highly effective.

Precautions are taken to:

Protect your cat during treatment
Ensure safe handling of radioactive materials
Provide clear instructions for short-term home care after discharge

Your veterinary team will guide you through every step of the process.

A Collaborative Approach to Care

Sage Veterinary Imaging works closely with veterinarians across Central Texas to provide coordinated, high-quality care.

The process includes:

Communication with your primary veterinarian
Updates during treatment
Seamless transition back to your veterinary team for follow-up care

This ensures continuity while providing access to specialized treatment.

Helping Central Texas Cats Live Healthier Lives

Hyperthyroidism can significantly impact your cat’s quality of life—but with the right treatment, it is often highly manageable and even curable.

At Sage Veterinary Imaging in Round Rock, radioiodine therapy offers a precise, effective solution for cats across Central Texas.

If your veterinarian has diagnosed hyperthyroidism, advanced treatment is available nearby to help restore your cat’s health and comfort.

Radioiodine Therapy for Cats in Central Texas