Radioiodine I-131 treatment for cats.

One simple treatment can save your cat’s life and get you back to what matters most – spending precious moments together.

We understand that seeing your pet experience unusual symptoms or act out of the ordinary can be stressful – especially if you don’t know what’s wrong. Fortunately, our veterinary experts are here to help.

Our commitment is not just to treat illnesses; it’s to enhance the well-being of your pet and be with you every step of the way.

A vet tech holds onto a patient while a veterinarian examines them.

A cure for hyperthyroidism in cats.

A veterinarian examines a cat using a stethoscope.

Cats with hyperthyroidism may show clinical signs and symptoms such as:

  • Behavioral changes
  • Increased appetite
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Weight loss
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Eliminations outside of the litter box
  • Thinning coat or excessive grooming
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea

You know your pet better than anyone, so if you notice any of these signs, give us a call.

Meet our board certified specialist.

Marc Elie

DVM, DACVIM
Board Certified in Veterinary Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine
Servicing Locations
BluePearl Pet Hospital Southfield, MI
On The Job

Dr. Elie is especially interested in endocrinology, infectious diseases and gastroenterology.

Education
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
  • Residency, Internal Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing
  • Bachelor of Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing
Off Duty

Dr. Elie is an arts advocate and shares his home with a fox terrier named Hunter.

A veteriary technician specialist and a vet tech administer chemotherapy to a cat.
A veterinarian examines a dog while a technician in scrubs assists.
A masked vet tech holds an orange cat on the counter.
A vet tech holds onto a patient while a veterinarian examines them.

What to expect.

A single injection of radioiodine (also known as I-131) can completely cure hyperthyroidism in cats.

When injected, most of the radioiodine accumulates in the thyroid, while the rest is eliminated in your cat’s urine and feces. The radiation in the iodine destroys thyroid tumor cells and effectively cures hyperthyroidism.

Your pet will stay with us for a few days after treatment to allow for a certain amount of radiation to leave their body. We know leaving your pet at the hospital is difficult, but it's critical for their safety and yours, and we use this time for a bit of patient pampering in a quiet environment with lots of loving attention.

The vast majority of cats who receive I-131 therapy never need to be treated again, so you’ll have more time to spend with them in the long run.

A vet tech snuggles a cat in an exam room.

Make an appointment.

Take the first step to getting your pet back to their best self – call us to speak with the hospital team and make an appointment.

Prioritize your pet’s health with the experts in specialty medicine.