Pre-treatment bloodwork
Prior to radioactive iodine treatment, we require bloodwork performed within the last four weeks. The necessary tests include evaluations of kidney function (urea, creatinine, SDMA) and thyroid hormones (T4 = Thyroxine). We recommend scheduling your treatment appointment at Lingehoeve Diergeneeskunde before having the bloodwork done at your regular veterinary clinic, as our waiting list usually extends from three to six weeks.

Thyroid medication or diet
In case your cat is being treated with medication (Felimazole/Thiafeline tablets, Thiamacare liquid or Carbimazol ear ointment) or a thyroid diet (Hill’s Y/D), you must discontinue these treatments four days prior to the radioactive iodine treatment. This means that the last dose of medication should be administered on Thursday.

Own blanket and food
Some cats appreciate having something that carries the scent of home, as it can provide a comforting feeling. You are welcome to bring a familiar blanket or small bed for your cat. Additionally, some cats can be picky eaters or may require a special diet, so you may also bring your cat's own food if necessary.

Please keep in mind that anything you provide for us cannot be returned due to radiation. Therefore, we recommend not bringing too much, as we will unfortunately have to dispose of any excess items.

Diet, Fish, and Treatment
There are no negative effects of specific diets on the outcomes of treatment.

Costs
The total cost for treatment is €1,825.00 (effective January 1, 2025). This amount is due upon picking up your cat. Payments can be made via debit card, credit card, or cash.

We kindly advise you to be mindful of your bank’s daily transaction limit, which can often be adjusted in advance if necessary.

Contact
For any inquiries or additional information, please email us at schildklierkat@delingehoeve.nl. You may also reach us by phone at +31 488 482900. Please ask for the thyroid cat team, as they are the primary point of contact for nuclear medicine in companion animals.

Going home
When your cat returns home after treatment with radioactive iodine and hospitalization, several precautions must be observed. For the next three weeks, your cat should avoid contact with pregnant women and children under the age of 18. Additionally, your cat must remain indoors for three weeks for safety reasons.

Contact with radiation primarily occurs through the cat's urine, feces, and saliva, so it is advisable to minimize cuddling with your cat during this period. You will need to collect the litter for three weeks and then store it for an additional four weeks. After this seven-week period, the waste will have lost its radiation and can be disposed of with regular trash.

We recommend completely changing the litter box every other day and removing soiled areas daily. Please remember to wear gloves when cleaning the litter box.