Understanding Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats (Feline Dementia)

Seeing signs of age slowly creep up on your cat can be heart-wrenching for an owner. Sometimes, age-related changes happen so gradually that you may not notice them. But sooner or later, you may come to the difficult realisation that your cat is not the cat they used to be.

Aging is normal, and a privilege. But it can be a mistake to assume that when your cat is slowing down, it is just because of age. If you notice a sudden change in your cat’s behaviour it is a good idea to speak to your vet. But remember, even a gradual change can be caused by a medical issue.

One of the causes of gradual decline in older cats is a form of dementia, known as ‘cognitive dysfunction syndrome’ or CDS. If you are concerned that your older cat is no longer behaving the way they used to do, it’s worth considering whether CDS is the cause.

What is CDS?

CDS is very similar to dementia, or senility. As your cat gets older, changes can happen in their brain. These changes affect their attention, memory and ability to learn.

Signs can start gradually but will worsen over time. Sadly, CDS can have a big impact on your cat’s quality of life.

Some of the signs of CDS also occur due to other health conditions, like overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), kidney disease, arthritis and high blood pressure. Your vet will need to rule out these other conditions first before they can arrive at a diagnosis of CDS.

Signs of CDS to look out for include:

• Changes in your cat’s general behaviour. They may become grumpier, or in some cases, more attention-seeking.
• Confusion about where they are. They may forget where their litter tray is for example, and toilet somewhere else in the home.
• Confusion about what time it is. Perhaps they’ve already had their evening meal but are asking you to feed them again.
• Changes in their sleeping patterns. You may notice that they have started to pace the house at night, when they would otherwise be quietly resting.
• Loud crying, which can be disruptive at night.
• Eating more or (more commonly) eating less.
• Grooming less, resulting in a scruffy, sometimes matted, coat.

If you notice any of these changes in your senior cat, you should contact your vet. It can be really hard to make that first step towards a diagnosis, but it’s so important for your cat to get the support they need.

Although CDS can’t be cured, you can make your cat’s life better.

Helping your cat with CDS

Making some minor changes in the home can make all the difference for a cat with CDS.

• Keep to a predictable daily routine. It’s not a good idea to introduce any big changes, like a new cat or dog, at this time.
• Make sure they have easy access to important items such as their bed, litter tray, scratching post, water bowl and food bowl. This may mean adding more of these items, so that they are never hard to find.
• Many older cats also suffer from arthritis, and litter trays with lower sides can be easier for them to access.
• Give your cat a night light. This can help them see where they are and reduce any nighttime confusion.
• Provide ramps or steps to help them reach their favourite windowsill or high-up perch.
• Play gently with toys and provide puzzle feeders. These can be a great distraction for your cat and can help keep their brain active.
• Make sure they have a quiet area to retreat to whenever they are feeling tired and overwhelmed.
• A diet rich in antioxidants may help improve brain function. There are also medicines that may be prescribed for your cat to help reduce anxiety or pain. Your vet can talk you through these options.

What is the outlook for CDS?

Cats with CDS can enjoy a good quality of life and may live for a long time following a diagnosis.

However, it is important to remember how unique your cat is, and that every cat will cope differently. Taking the time to consider whether your cat still enjoys their life is an important part of looking after them as they age. If you think back to all the things they used to love, are they still able to do these things?

It can be hard to know when to say goodbye to a much-loved pet. Support is available though, and you don’t have to make any decisions alone.

Cloud 9 Vets have developed expert support to help remove some of the heartache and confusion around end-of-life decisions. Our quality-of-life assessment tool can help you identify how your cat is coping as they undergo treatment or reach the end of their life. A team of Cloud 9 trained care-coordinators are also available by phone, so you can rest assured that you have expert, caring support on hand.

Cats today have a life expectancy of nearly 20 years. During their golden years, we often find we are closer to our cats than ever, as they enjoy more lap time and a quieter pace of life. Both you and your cat deserve to enjoy this special time together.