Emma’s radioactive iodine experience

Patient details

Name: Emma
Age: 12 years
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Gender: Female (spayed)

Emma, a sweet 12-year-old Domestic Short Hair, came to us for Radioactive Iodine (I-131) treatment to manage her hyperthyroidism. Her local vets referred her to our team for treatment and ongoing monitoring, as blood sampling had always been a challenging experience for her. Using our feline-friendly techniques, we managed her care successfully while minimising her stress.

Now thriving, Emma has made a remarkable recovery, and we are delighted to have been part of her journey to better health.

Patient history

Initial presentation

Emma was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and referred to our facility for Radioactive Iodine (I-131) therapy in July 2024. Her local veterinary team faced challenges obtaining blood samples post-treatment, which led to her returning to us for follow-up diagnostics.

Diagnostics and treatment

During her visits, our team used gentle handling techniques, topical local anaesthetic cream, and her back leg vein (medial saphenous) as an alternative to her neck vein to collect blood samples. This approach reduced the stress typically associated with restraint, allowing us to successfully obtain the required samples without sedation.

Follow-up and outcome

Since her treatment, Emma has been doing exceptionally well. Her owners, Bill and Merilee, expressed their gratitude for the compassionate care she received and the expertise of our team in ensuring a stress-free experience.

We are pleased to see Emma enjoying life post-treatment and appreciate the kind words from her family about their positive experience at Cat Specialist Services.

“Everyone at CSS was very understanding of Emma’s needs and handled her with great care during her stay for radioactive iodine treatment. Our local vet had trouble obtaining a blood sample for her post-treatment tests, so after two unsuccessful attempts, we took Emma back to CSS. They managed to collect the blood and urine samples without causing Emma any stress – they really are magical cat whisperers! It would be wonderful if every vet had techniques to reduce the stress cats feel when undergoing procedures in unfamiliar places.” – Bill and Merilee

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

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Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377

1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119

Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed