Our 13 year old cat was recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, too. You should be aware that one of the side effects of methimazole is lack of appetite, as well as nausea. According to the patient info from the drug manufacturer, if either of these side effects appear you should stop the methimazole and contact your veterinarian immediately.
I'm a little surprised that your vet can't refer you to a center that does the radioactive iodine treatment. This is done is a specialized, government certified/licensed facility because of the radioactive material involved, so there aren't many of these facilities in any one area. You might try googling "radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroid cats in San Francisco Bay area " -- this should give you some leads to facilities in your area.
As for food, I can only speak about our girl, Meeka. Because of the hyperthyroidism she has developed a ravenous appetite and isn't at all fussy about her food. I suspect that once the issue of your cat's lack of appetite and/or nausea is resolved, she may well eat whatever food you normally feed her.
I sympathize with you about the cost of providing good care, food etc. for your cat on a limited income. We, too, have struggled with veterinary costs and the cost of providing "good" quality food to our three cats.
I hope your cat is back to eating more normally soon.
Sending good wishes your way.
I'm a little surprised that your vet can't refer you to a center that does the radioactive iodine treatment. This is done is a specialized, government certified/licensed facility because of the radioactive material involved, so there aren't many of these facilities in any one area. You might try googling "radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroid cats in San Francisco Bay area " -- this should give you some leads to facilities in your area.
As for food, I can only speak about our girl, Meeka. Because of the hyperthyroidism she has developed a ravenous appetite and isn't at all fussy about her food. I suspect that once the issue of your cat's lack of appetite and/or nausea is resolved, she may well eat whatever food you normally feed her.
I sympathize with you about the cost of providing good care, food etc. for your cat on a limited income. We, too, have struggled with veterinary costs and the cost of providing "good" quality food to our three cats.
I hope your cat is back to eating more normally soon.
Sending good wishes your way.