http://www.catsvet.com/I-131.htm
Quote:
Are there any side effects or risks of therapy?
Since the iodine is specific in its site of action, there is no hair loss or increase in skin pigmentation, as may be seen with other forms of radiation therapy (cobalt radiation). Some cats seem to experience mild discomfort of the thyroid region (thyroiditis) at the beginning of therapy, but this resolves itself spontaneously and does not cause a problem.
Occasionally a cat will develop hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid gland) after treatment with radioiodine. This is easily controlled with supplementation and may not be permanent. Overall, side effects are extremely rare.
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http://www.medvet-cves.com/Radiology...ineTherapy.htm
Quote:
Screening Candidates for Radioiodine Treatment
Hyperthyroidism causes increased blood flow to the kidneys and can mask kidney disease. In older cats (greater than 11 years of age), cats with extremely high T4 levels, cats with slightly elevated kidney parameters on blood work or cats that have kidneys that palpate abnormally, a tapazole trial is generally recommended. Tapazole is given to the candidate for approximately 3 weeks. Bloodwork (chemistry profile and T4 level) are repeated. If kidney values do not increase significantly (compared with pre-Tapazole bloodwork) when the T4 is normal (or near normal), then the cat is considered a good candidate for radioiodine treatment.
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http://maxshouse.com/Hyperthyroidism_in_Cats.htm
that site lists some of the side effects of the drug that the cat has to be on for 8 days before the treatment - the drug is Methimazole.
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Not to make a joke..does the kitty have a DNR? I have a DNR because I would not want extraordinary measures taken to preserve my life... If I lived a good life, I would want to go quietly comfortably and peacefully. Cats are just like family members, I think she has to ask herself what the kitty woudl really want.
Good luck to you both, and hugs to the kitty
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Age of the cat doesn't seem to be a factor...