As your cat ages, the changes you observe might make you wonder if your pet is suffering from early signs of dementia.
Feline dementia, also known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), is a progressive disease that causes mental deterioration. While there is no cure, there are ways to manage the condition and enhance a cat’s quality of life through all the dementia stages. However, many signs of dementia are also seen with other diseases, meaning your veterinarian will have to rule those out first before your cat can be diagnosed with CDS.
Here are some signs of dementia, as well as steps you can take to combat the disease and keep your cat as comfortable as possible.
Disorientation
Cats suffering from disorientation may forget how to locate their favorite resting spots, food dishes or the litter box. The resulting stress could cause them to vocalize more frequently or develop separation anxiety. You might notice your cat staring at a wall or appearing unsteady.
To help, make sure to keep everything in the same place. Maintaining a familiar routine is also important. If necessary, limit the areas of the house that the cat can access. If your confused cat demands more attention, be patient.
Behavior Changes
Personality changes are a strong indicator that something is wrong. Formerly social cats may become introverted and avoid interaction. New characteristics might appear, such as restlessness, excessive irritability or fearfulness. Many cats also stop grooming themselves as efficiently as before.
None of these behaviors are red flags for dementia, but do take note if it is a change from a previous pattern. Try to be understanding if your cat no longer appreciates the same bonding activities you enjoyed before and adapt to what your pet now needs.
Sleep Changes
Waking at strange hours and crying at night are other potential warning signs. Unfortunately, cats with dementia tend to be extra restless at night. Daytime naps may become longer and more frequent. This can lead to an erratic sleeping schedule.
If you’re open to it, letting your cat sleep with you may help soothe anxiety. However, this might not be feasible if your cat is going to be up all night. Try keeping your cat as active as possible during the day. Before bed, play some games and tire your feline friend out. In extreme cases, your veterinarian might recommend medication to help with anxiety and sleep.
House Soiling
It’s typical for cats with dementia to have accidents in the house, but this is also a symptom of other health issues, such as lower urinary tract disease, kidney problems and hyperthyroidism. A visit to your veterinarian will clarify if the house soiling is due to something other than cognitive decline.
Remember that as frustrating as this behavior can be, it’s not a calculated move on your cat’s part. Keep easily accessible litter boxes near all your cat’s favorite locations and thoroughly clean any areas where accidents occurred to discourage your cat from using those spots again.
Loss of Appetite
Some cats with dementia will have a decreased interest in food, while others entirely stop eating. They may also simply forget about meal times or where their food dish is located.
Placing additional food bowls around the house might remind your cat to eat. You can also try changing the food to something more enticing, but introduce any dietary changes very slowly. Cats are smell-driven, so wet foods that have been warmed slightly or that are especially “aromatic” may be hard to resist.
Living with Feline Dementia
A familiar daily routine, nutritious diet, environmental enrichment and mental stimulation can all help reduce the effects of feline dementia. Try giving your cat safe access to the outdoors (for example, a kitty stroller or a bed near a window), teaching new tricks or playing with toys together. Antioxidants, L-theanine, selegiline, melatonin, pheromones or other brain-enhancing or anti-anxiety supplements or medications may also be worth a try. Your veterinarian can recommend the right combination based on your cat’s individual needs.