Feline Cognitive Dysfunction & Cat Dementia and How To Help

CDS is a condition that affects cats' cognitive functioning as they get older. Cat parents may use a range of other terms to describe CDS, such as feline senility, cat dementia or even cat Alzheimer's. While these terms do a fairly adequate job of conveying the changes that can occur with cognitive decline in cats, they aren't considered accurate labels in the veterinary community.

It isn't always easy to distinguish dementia in cats from regular changes associated with aging. While it's natural for older cats to slow down, become less active and spend more hours of the day sleeping, talk to your veterinarian about changes to your cat's habits or behaviors rather than simply accepting them as normal. (For example, if your cat is unable to jump to their favorite lounging spot, this can indicate degenerative joint disease, or feline arthritis.)

Consult your vet if your cat shows any of the following signs of senility in cats:

• Elimination outside the litter box

• Decreased interactions with people or other pets

• Disorientation, confusion or forgetfulness

• Increased vocalization, sometimes sounding distressed

• Altered sleeping patterns (e.g., no longer sleeping through the night)

• Decreased appetite

• Lack of interest in favorite toys, puzzles or treats

The Importance of Diagnosis

While any of the previously mentioned signs can indicate CDS, several other conditions can prompt similar signs, including:

• Hyperthyroidism

• Diabetes mellitus

• Osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint diseases

• Sensory decline

• High blood pressure

• Chronic kidney disease

• Other neurological disorders

Fortunately, you just need to flag the concern — your vet will perform a medical workup to establish the underlying cause. Along with a detailed history and physical exam, your vet may perform diagnostic tests, such as basic bloodwork, urine tests, radiographs (X-rays) and specific tests to evaluate endocrine system function. Your cat's diagnostic plan will be highly individualized according to their behavioral changes and other signs.

While there's currently no cure for CDS, a number of feline dementia treatments can help your cat feel more comfortable. Potential interventions largely focus on environmental enrichment and modification, therapeutic nutrition, supplementation and medication. Here are some specific tips for alleviating signs of cat dementia and supporting your cat's brain health.

Nutrition and Supplementation

Cat food rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, may help slow the age-related changes that occur in the brain by fighting free radical damage. Fish oils, a source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, are also believed to have a positive impact on brain health in cats. Your vet can help you find a complete and balanced food suitable for your cat's needs that meets these requirements. In some cases, they may also recommend supplementation.

Environmental Enrichment and Modification

To support cat brain function in cats of all ages, encourage mental and physical engagement with a variety of interactive cat toys and puzzles. Ensure your cat has easy access to litter boxes by providing options with low sides and placing them in multiple locations, such as one upstairs and one downstairs. Consider adding nightlights throughout your home to help your cat navigate their environment.

Avoid unnecessary stress. For example, coordinate a house sitter rather than boarding your cat while you're away, and avoid adopting new pets. Plug-in pheromone diffusers and sprays may help reduce stress in cats and help some kitties feel calmer. Maintain a consistent schedule and routine as much as possible.

Continued Veterinary Care

Be vigilant about routine veterinary visits during your cat's senior years so your vet can detect any health problems early when interventions are easiest and most successful. Work with your vet to treat and manage any concurrent conditions, such as joint disease or hypertension.

Remember, punishment is never appropriate or helpful for cats. Practice patience with your senior cat during this life stage to avoid additional stress, and remember that any new sign warrants veterinary attention. At home, your job is to provide complete and balanced nutrition, a calm, enriching environment and plenty of love.