Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 9/3/2008

Question
Hello Charlotte, i have two brother cats with hyperthyroidism.  they are both 13 or 14 years old.  they have been on branded tapazole for almost 2 years.  they are both taking 1/3 of a tapzole pill twice daily.  from what it sounds like this isn't a very large dose.  what i was wondering is that they are both doing very well on the meds.  i have the dosage down to a science with the 1/3 tablet twice daily.  the dr. started them out much higher and i wanted to give them the least amt. possible with the perfect results and this dosage has worked for over a year.  my question for you is that i was considering taking them both to get the radioactive iodine.  both of them seem to be good candidates for the surgery.. the cost doesnt bother me at all.  i really want the best thing for my pets.  i just dont know if i should risk the radioactive iodine or just keep giving them the tapazole?? do you have a suggestion.  i heard a few yucky stories about the radioactive iodine, now i am afraid to give it to my cats, for fear that something might happen to one of them when they are doing well on tapazole.  i guess what i am asking is how long can i give this harsh drug tapozle to my cats without harming them... is this drug doing more harm than good??  would you give your cats the tapazole if they were doing good on it or radioactive iodine.  i cant decide.  i just am not sure how long they can live on this medication.  just a few years or for many years to come.... do you have any help for us.  thanks dawn marie

Answer
Dawn Marie -

Cats can live well on tapazole.  However, depending on the individual cats, some may experience side effects such as vomiting or decrease in appetite.  

Radiation therapy is great with very little side effects. the major risk is the your cats will suffer from hypothyroidism, but you'll deal with that only if it crops up.  

There are several specialty clinics that will treat cats with hyperthyroidism.  These places are specially equipped to house your cats after treatment to observe for side effects and complications.  

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM