Bubba was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism a little over two weeks ago, after some very quick personality changes (increased grumpiness and disappearing for long periods of time), coupled with an unexplained aversion to food, and increased bouts of vomiting. His initial treatment was an antiemitic shot, Reglan tablets (also for the vomiting), Periactin (for appetite) and Tapezole (anti-thyroid drug) twice daily for a week, then once daily for a week. Bubba's kidney and liver values were checked and showed to be completely normal. However, since hyperthyroidism is known to mask hidden kidney disease, it is standard procedure to recheck thoase values once thyroid levels return to normal. The latter information was my biggest concern, since a cat with kidney failure is not a candidate for radioactive iodine therapy.
The Followup Tests
Exactly as planned, Bubba was retested at the end of the two weeks' preliminary Tapozole therapy. We could already see positive results, as his appetite had returned to normal and he appeared to even have gained a little weight.
We anxiously awaited the results of the second tests, and were excited to hear that Bubba's thyroid level (T-4) had dropped back to 3.3, (from 6.5 two weeks ago), which is mid-range of normal. The most encouraging news was that he has regained almost half a pound, and his kidney and liver values are still absolutely normal. This means he is a good candidate for the radioactive iodine therapy, which is our treatment of choice.
What Comes Next?
Although we had anticipated having the radioiodine therapy done at U.C. Davis, it appears that that service is no longer being offered in the veterinary teaching hospital. We were referred to a veterinarian in Sacramento (about 70 miles from our home), who appears to come very highly qualified. We had hoped to have the radioiodine treatment done as soon as possible, but, upon talking with Dr. Van Vechten, encountered a significant glitch: the clinic is out of the essential I-131 material, and it is not clear when it will be available. So, now, we're playing a waiting game, and can only wait until the call comes.
In the meantime, Bubba continues to thrive; he's pretty resigned to the pill-a-day routine, and eating well with minimal vomiting. He can survive indefinitely on the Tapazole, and except for the unknown (but unlikely, statistically) issue of the tumor being cancerous, there's no real rush, so we'll wait for that phone call.
