The cats do not have to be placed under anesthesia for the procedure. Radioactive iodine treatment of hyperthyroid cats is available at Washington State University . Some other sites that offer radioactive iodine treatment can be located on the Web. Older cats with hyperthyroidism often also have kidney disease. Treatment of these cats is a delicate balancing act.
Hyperthyroidism can actually improve kidney function by increasing blood flow to the kidneys.
Some cats with kidney disease will show a worsening of kidney function after treatment for hyperthyroidism. Talk to your veterinarian about monitoring kidney function in hyperthyroid cats. Washington State University assumes no liability for injury to you or your pet incurred by following these descriptions or procedures.