Kikki’s transformation after I-131

Patient details

Name: Kikki
Age: 14 years
Breed: Domestic Medium Hair
Gender: Female

Kikki is a gentle and resilient cat who came to CSS with a long-standing case of hyperthyroidism and significant heart changes.

With a carefully coordinated treatment plan, Kikki underwent and responded exceptionally well to I-131 therapy and follow-up care. Her progress was made possible through close collaboration between her owner and our medical and cardiology teams.

Patient history

Early challenges

Kikki had been living with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism for some time. Her condition was made harder to manage by suspected drug reactions to transdermal methimazole, which caused ear irritation and fluctuating thyroid levels despite dosage adjustments. She also experienced ongoing weight loss, increased restlessness and a rapid heart rate.

Diagnosis and treatment

At CSS, Dr Rachel Korman performed a thorough assessment and identified a large, firm goitre and was suspicious of an increased risk of changes to her heart given her thyroid status and physical examination findings. In close collaboration with a veterinary cardiologist from Veterinary Cardiology Australia – just up the driveway, Kiki was stabilised on atenolol and rivaroxaban for a couple of weeks before proceeding with I-131 treatment. These medications helped to reduce the strain on her heart and ensured her hospital stay was as safe as possible.

Dr Rachel recalls:

“Her case was complicated, but once we had her heart rate controlled, she really settled into the hospital routine and did fantastically well in the iodine unit. We have such a unique situation to be able to work so closely with a big team of veterinary cardiologists to ensure the safest care for each cat.”

Outcome

Kikki responded beautifully to treatment. During her hospital stay, she became calmer and more comfortable, and her follow-up echocardiogram showed marked improvement in her heart measurements, with her heart wall thickness significantly reduced.
Dr Rachel said:

“Kikki’s case shows how much better these cats can feel when we take the time to tailor a plan and support them through the process.”

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