Cats With Dementia

One in ten cats is now suffering from dementia as Britain’s feline population gets older, experts have warned.  Dementia or Alzheimers is becoming increasingly common among cats.  It’s estimated that it
now affects around 1 million felines, 28% of cats aged between 11-14 and 50% of older cats.

As with humans, the life expectancy of cats is increasing and with this longer life runs the greater chance of developing dementia. Studies show that good diet, mental stimulation and companionship
can reduce the likelihood of dementia in cats (and in humans, too).

Signs 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

This list probably doesn’t cover everything, so if you see these or any other signs that you cat isn’t himself, then please visit your Vet.

Can can we do to help?

If the condition is picked up early enough, then the following may help

• food fortified with anit-oxidants and vitamins
• stimulationg environment with toys and playtime with their favourite human
• medications prescribed by the Vet

However, cats with advanced dementia need to feel safe and might not cope with changes to their food or routine that could frighten or confuse them.

Your Vet is the person to consult at all times.