THE FIRST 2 WEEKS AT HOME:

Discharge Instructions for Minimizing Radiation Exposure During the First 2 Weeks at Home Following I-131 Therapy for your Cat:

1. Although I131 is a safe and effective treatment for feline hyperthyroidism, Tennessee state law requires that we minimize human exposure to radiation as much as reasonably possible during and after treatment.
2. Try to maintain a distance of at least 3 feet from your cat at all times.  Children under 18 years of age and pregnant women or women of child-bearing age should maintain a distance of at least 6 feet and should not participate in the cat's daily care (litter box maintenance, feeding, etc.).  Your cat should sleep in a separate room from all people in the house for the first 2 weeks at home.
3. Your cat MUST be confined indoors during this 2 week period of time.  If your cat requires emergency veterinary attention during that 2-week period, please be sure to notify the veterinarian about your cat's recent I131 treatment.
4. Though the levels are very low, small amounts of radioactivity are still being excreted in your cat's urine, feces, saliva and sweat glands (on the foot pads).  Therefore, confining your cat to its own area (to prevent them from walking on counters, etc.), ensuring they use a litter box to void wastes, and minimizing contact with their hair coat (because of saliva from grooming) is strongly recommended.
5. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling your cat's litter box.  Avoid pouring dirty litter from a height where waste materials can be aerosolized.
6. Do not bathe or groom your cat during their first 2 weeks at home.  Also, do not take them to a groomer or boarding facility during that time.
7. Please be sure to use the clumping, flushable cat litter provided for at least the first 2 weeks after discharge.  Be sure to scoop the box twice daily (wearing gloves) so you don't risk clogging the toilet.
8. Even during the car trip home, it is best to maintain a distance of at least 3 feet from your cat.  Do not allow your cat free access to the car in case of accidents that might contaminate your car.
9. Your cat may have contact (share dishes, litter box and sleeping quarters) with other cats in the household as long as they are adult cats and not pregnant or used for breeding.  However, be aware that if cats are sharing a litter box, all of the waste will need to be flushed, which can significantly increase the risk of a toilet clog or other problem.
10. After 2 weeks, there should be no significant residual radioactivity of any kind in your cat.  Please do not hesitate to call with any questions regarding any aspect of your pet's care once you return home.  Thank you.