Cat Radiation Therapy for Hyperthyroidism

At our North Nowra Veterinary Hospital we have the expertise to treat cats diagnosed with hyperthyroidism using radioactive iodine. We are the only veterinary hospital on the NSW South Coast that performs this procedure. Cats are treated in a lead shielded cat cage manufactured by Gammasonics. The cage is made of lead with a lead glass window so cats can be monitored at all times whilst in for treatment. This purpose-built cage removes any chance of radiation exposure to operators.

What is Hyperthyroidism and how is it caused?

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disease where the thyroid gland secretes too much thyroid hormone. In most cases, a benign tumour that grows directly on the thyroid gland causes the excessive amounts of the hormone.
The thyroid hormone is important around the whole body as it regulates many processes. Cats that have too much of the hormone become seriously sick from the symptoms associated with it.

Symptoms
Weight loss
Vomiting
Increased drinking
Increased appetite
Increased urination
Change in behaviour – ‘aggressive’
Increased activity levels
Increase pigmentation on the skin

How is Hyperthyroidism diagnosed?

The clinical signs when your cat presents for a checkup can help diagnose Hyperthyroidism. Your veterinarian can also confirm the diagnosis with blood tests that detect elevated enzymes in the liver and serum thyroid levels in the blood.

As we say to all of our customers, if your cat is showing any of the symptoms above it would be ideal to speak to your veterinarian sooner rather than later.

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"They all love animals"

Understanding that some couples who have kids and grandkids, treat their animals like people. Having well trained staff, who get to know us quickly, and who are always so nice, helpful and efficient. They do great follow up calls to monitor their patients, and if they say they will call back, they actually do call back. They love animals and are very involved with their work.

"You guys are simply the best"

Thank you for providing a cattery where our 2 cats have stayed several times, and get outstanding care. They come home each time so relaxed - none of this tail and nose in the air for 48 hours story. The result is we go away and have no worries about our cats.

"Always the best care for our fur babies"

I have always been a client of North Nowra Vets. Their care and compassion is so heartfelt. They care for my cats as if they were their own. Always available for emergency after hours calls. I also use the cattery when we go away and have never had a cat ignore me afterwards. We will remain a loyal customer at North Nowra Vets because they care.

"My best respect to all who are part of this team"

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"Visits are never rushed and our dog's checkups are very thorough"

We have always found Kathy, Quentin and staff very pleasant and helpful. Visits are never rushed and our dog's checkups are very thorough. The options for treatment are clearly explained so the best choice can be made. Our dog has the intelligence and strong will that his breed is known for but he is always very happy even excited to go to the North Nowra Veterinary Hospital and that surely is a strong a recommendation as any.

"Everyone is so welcoming and friendly!"

From a client's perspective, or 'owner of your patient', you have many years brought the "whole package" together in relation to you practice. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly which is great for both human and animal. I have for many years been referring friends, neighbours, acquaintances and clients from our own business to you knowing that they will receive professional care and excellent diagnosis.

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"I pass 3 other clinics to get to you"

A lot of people ask me why I go out of my way to go to your clinic. It's because you have always given the best possible care, the centre is always fresh looking and a smile always available. At first I felt a bit apprehensive seeing someone other than Cathy or Quentin. But each and every time my distress has been eased with the knowledge and support given by all the team. I have always received 110%.

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I am pretty impresses when whoever is on the counter manages to call up Xena's details as I'm walking through the door so that by the time I reach the counter it's all up on the screen waiting for whatever has to be done. It's great and really efficient!! Thanks for the hassle free service and a happy place to walk into!

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I am so glad I finally found a vet that really understands my anxious dog! All the nurses and vets are always gentle with my dog! Thank you!