Feline Dementia

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| Print | By | August 27, 2008 5:26 PM

Your senior cat is starting to be a little bit forgetful, meows loudly at times for no apparent reason, is not showing as much interest in grooming and at times seems anxious, or lost in your house. You are concerned, and of course make an appointment with your veterinarian.

While many things can cause these behavioral issues, one thing to consider and discuss with your veterinarian, as soon as possible, is a form of Feline Alzheimer’s, or Dementia. Caused by degeneration of the brain as the cat ages, cats, just like their human companions, can also show these symptoms. While dementia is a progressive condition, new medications for humans, such as Anipryl, manufactured by Pfizer, are now available for veterinary treatment, which may help halt the progression, however.

The University of Edinburgh research scientists believe that a quarter of cats between the age of 11-14, and half of the cats over 15 years-of-age display "geriatric onset behavioral problems." Dr. Daniel Gunn-Moore, professor of Feline medicine at the university said, "When we look at cats of all ages, we believe about 10 percent will be affected, which represents about one million cats in Britain. Since cats are living longer lives, she postulates that cats are at greater risk, today. With the excellent veterinary care available for cats, in addition to improved diet and keeping cats indoors rather than being allowed to roam outside, cats are being treated for conditions, which, at one time may have been euthanized.

The good news, however, is that Dr. Gunn-Moore's team of scientists have launched a new study designed to learn more about which factors contribute to the risk of elderly cats succumbing to dementia, and what treatment strategies can be found to prevent the onset of this disease. They will be examining if certain breeds are at higher risk, the impact that different lifestyles or diseases can contribute to dementia, and most importantly, what can be done to prevent it. She is hopeful that their research with felines may also solve some of the puzzles related to dementia for humans. Two years ago, their research involved scans, which demonstrated changes to the neural system in elderly felines who were exhibiting confusion. They found the same amyloid protein in cats as humans. Additionally, this team was the first to discover that cats can suffer from Alzheimer’s. This promising research is exciting for cat owners and possibly dog owners as well so that pets in the future may be able to live longer, more fulfilling lives.

However, veterinarians must first rule out other conditions that can mimic some of these symptoms before a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer's is made. Cats are masters at hiding illness as a survival strategy. Cat owners must learn to "tune in" to their pets for any subtle unusual behaviors, which may not be displayed like a flashing neon-light signal.

Similarly to their human companions, providing a stimulating environment for your cat, challenging it to "think" and play, in conjunction to providing a high quality diet, may help to reduce the risk of dementia as cats mature. This being said, cats who are already suffering with dementia may be hesitant and become confused with too much stimulation. Of course, consult with your veterinarian prior to initiating any new activities with these cats.

Dr. Gunn-Moore also provides a list of signs that may indicate your cat has dementia.

- Getting disoriented and confused; can be shown if cats keep getting trapped in corners, or failing to find their litter tray

- Loud crying, especially at night

- Changed social relationships; becoming more aggressive or attention-seeking than previously

- Increased irritability or anxiety, or less interest in stimuli, such as games

- Altered sleeping patterns

- Changes in activity; aimless wandering, pacing or reduced activity

- Altered interest in food; usually eating less, sometimes eating more, after forgetting they have eaten

- Decreased grooming

Are you concerned that your cat may be suffering from some form of dementia? What actions have you taken? Leave a comment and share with us.

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Kathy Kvarda August 28, 2008 10:11 AM

Several years ago, I went through this with an aging Boston Terrier. Medication did not help, but I was able to maintain her, with good quality of life, for some time by being vigilant regarding her needs. My 18 1/2 year old Siamese, so far, does not show any signs of dementia. She has reverted, though, to being awake most of the night and sleeping during the day. My vet said that cats are naturally nocturnal. When young, domestic cats adjust to our schedule, but then they tend to go back to their instinctive sleeping habits as they age.

Vicki August 28, 2008 1:29 PM

Very interesting. I have never thought about any animal developing any kind of dementia. I guess I would expect any animals activity to slow down with age, but this is very interesting information.

Donna August 28, 2008 7:11 PM

While my Pirate is nearing 14 (birthday next month) he still acts like a very young cat! He's a dear...so faithful and loving...I dread the day I'll have to let him go, but I'm hoping he's like my boss's cat Abagail,that is still going strong at 24!

annie August 28, 2008 8:07 PM

this is a very interesting article, and quite informative! who would have thunk that cats can also get alzheimer's.

my beloved baby lived to a wee bit over 16 and it was one hot week in august that did her in -- not the left over effects from mt st helen's almost blowing up the previous september.

Patti September 9, 2008 9:32 PM

My dear precious 20 yr old cat Nikki HOWLS a loud blood curdling cry at night and occasionally during the day....I am afraid the neighbours will hear this....all I ask is for a good nights sleep...I havent had one of those in 6 months !!! I dont know what the answer is....earplugs? She has just about all of the symptoms described in the article above. I dont know what the answer is here. I have had her half of my life and the thought of euthanasia tears me apart, but the thought that she has lost her mind and is suffering tears me apart even more.

Sylvia June 15, 2009 9:29 AM

I really do understand Patti. I have the same with my 20 yeart old cat Stella. Since 3 days I'm giving her Cholodin, this seems to help a bit, since she doesn't cry as bad any more, but it is still too early to shout victory.

Debbe September 29, 2009 11:31 PM

I have 18 yr old Maine Coon, he yowls terribly at night in a strange whooo whoo sound x 1 yr and it's getting worse. Keeping him shut in my bedroom does help. He forgets he has already eaten and he just started "trying" to spray and be intimate with my stuffed bears on my bed. He's been fixed since he was 6 months old so I'm not sure what that is about. He started urinating on my clothes, towels, or anything left on the floor. (had him checked for medical reasons) No changes of any kind so add this new sympton with the others I listed and all I can come up with is Dementia. He has always been healthy but these new symptoms are tearing my relationships apart as I can't invite family and friends over any more due to urine smell. I'd appreciate any advice. Thanks.

Judy October 13, 2009 5:26 PM

My wonderful Miss Kitty is 21. For the last 6 months she has stopped grooming (we are brushing and clipping mats off her daily)and roams day and night. She eats more than ever yet remains slim. Bath time has turned into a continual howling session. She tries to use the litter box but usually misses it. I can't invite any over any more due to the smell. I too would appreciate any advice. Thanks.