Nuclear Medicine for Pets
Radioiodine Therapy
Nuclear Medicine for Pets offers radioiodine therapy for treatment of feline hyperthyroidism. Radioiodine therapy is the quickest, safest, and most effective method for treating hyperthyroid cats.
We have been treating cats in the Delaware Valley since 2003, and we are the only provider in the area that will guarantee the effectiveness of our treatment for the lifetime of your cat. A referral from your veterinarian is required.
For more information, see our Frequently Asked Questions section, or call our toll-free number at 866-738-7230
Referrals
Radioiodine Therapy
All patients must be referred by their primary veterinarian. This is for the health and safety of your pet.
Your cat will need to have several diagnostic tests performed before we schedule your appointment. This can usually be done during a single visit to your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian will need a referral form to send along with your cat's medical history and lab results.
To have referral forms faxed to you or your veterinarian, please call us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Medicine
What is feline hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a benign condition caused by overproduction of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. It is common in cats over 8 years of age. Malignant cancer of the thyroid gland can also occur but is rare in cats.
What are the signs my cat may be hyperthyroid?
Clinical signs include weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, drinking and urinating more, and nervousness or hyperactivity. Elevated thyroid hormone levels can cause high heart rate, benign heart murmurs, arrhythmia and high blood pressure.
Safety
Is iodine radiotherapy safe for my cat?
Iodine radiotherapy is the safest method of treating hyperthyroidism in cats. There are no risks of surgery, no anesthesia, and no medication side-effects.
Are there contraindications for radioiodine therapy?
Hyperthyroidism is most common in older cats, so it is not unusual for a hyperthyroid cat to have other health problems. A complete blood workup (blood count, serum chemistry panel), urinalysis, and a chest x-ray are performed by your veterinarian as a preliminary evaluation. We will discuss any health concerns with you and your veterinarian prior to scheduling treatment.
Is it safe for me and my family?
Yes! The NRC closely regulates the use of radioactive isotopes in veterinary patients. There is minimal radioactivity remaining in the body when your cat is discharged 72 hours after therapy. Our staff will show you how best to minimize your exposure after you bring your cat home.
Efficacy
How effective is iodine therapy?
Radioactive iodine is the most effective method for treating hyperthyroidism in cats. Surgical resection requires anesthesia and there is a risk of surgical complications. Medical management requires daily dosing of medication for the life of your cat. With iodine therapy, one treatment is usually effective for life. If your cat's hyperthyroidism ever recurs, we will treat again at no cost!
Can treating my cat cause hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism, which results from low levels of thyroid hormone, can cause signs such as lethargy, dullness, obesity, dandruff, oily skin, and matted fur. Only 1-2% of cats treated with radioiodine therapy develop hypothyroidism. In many cases the condition is transient and resolves spontaneously. If needed, cats can be easily treated with supplemental thyroid hormone given orally as a pill.
Logistics
How long does my cat have to be hospitalized?
The treatment process takes a total of four days. We admit patients on Monday morning and treat Monday afternoon. Our patients are typically discharged on Thursday afternoon.
Where are you located?
We are in the Norristown / Valley Forge PA region. Our address is:
2626 Van Buren Ave.
Norristown, PA 19403
Driving directions and a map are available.
Cost
How much does iodine radiotherapy cost?
The cost is $1,000, which includes treatment, boarding, and supplies to be used following discharge. You also receive our lifetime guarantee - we will treat your cat for free if hyperthyroidism ever recurs.
Referrals
How can I schedule my cat for treatment?
You must be referred by your veterinarian. Please have your vet call us at 866-738-7230 or see our Referrals section.
Directions & Maps
Nuclear Medicine for Pets is conveniently located within the Metropolitan Veterinary Associates building in Norristown, PA. The facility is within easy driving distance from New Jersey, Delaware and many Pennsylvania counties including: Montgomery, Chester, Bucks, Philadelphia, Lancaster, York, Lehigh and Berks. The facility is easily accessed from most major roadways including:
• Pennsylvania Turnpike
• Route 422
• New Jersey Turnpike
• Route 202
• Blue Route (476)
For more information call (866) 738-7230 or email us using the contact form.
Directions
From the Valley Forge Interchange of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, follow signs to 202 South / 422 West. Take 422 West about one mile to the PA-363 North (Trooper Rd.). Follow Trooper Rd. for 0.6 miles and turn left onto Van Buren Drive (2nd light). Follow Van Buren 0.4 miles. Metropolitan Veterinary Associates is on the left side with the front entrance facing Van Buren Ave.
From points NW: Take 422 East to the Oaks / Audubon exit. Take the ramp to Audubon / Norristown. Bear right at Egypt Rd. and go 1.9 miles. Turn right at Rittenhouse Rd. and go 0.4 miles. Turn left on Van Buren Ave. Metropolitan Veterinary Associates is on the right side with the front entrance facing Van Buren Ave.
