The symptoms that a cat can get at age are the same as those of people who have dementia. However, we call it a dementia but cognitive dysfunction syndrome in a cat. Sometimes it is difficult to recognize cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). Your cat can also behave differently because it is just a day older.

Symptoms of dementia for cats.

Especially in the initial phase, your cat may be a little less active, less inclined to play and more on his own (these symptoms are often not really noticed). Then your cat will suffer from the following symptoms:

Decreased orientation: the cat can no longer position itself well in where it is. For example, he can no longer find his way to the litter box. A cat that was always clean can suddenly become unclean again. He can also go after things that are not there.

Meow at night: cats suffering from dementia can disturb your night’s sleep by singing very loudly.

Behavioral change, a cat who suffers from dementia can suddenly become a lot more aggressive, more on his own or more affectionate. Even separation anxiety can occur.

Determining cat dementia

The symptoms of cat dementia can be very similar to age-related ailments. Many age-related ailments have a physical cause. For example, fatigue and less enthusiastic can be caused by heart disease. (read more about age-related ailments and possible causes here). The vet will always physically examine the cat first, he will also take some blood tests. If all physical ailments are excluded, then a change in the brain is likely to be the cause. Only then can we speak of cat dementia.

The cause and treatment of cat dementia 

The cause is not yet fully known, but stress and reduced blood flow to the brain and less neurotransmitter production probably influence this. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for cat dementia. As time passes, the symptoms will get worse. With medication the symptoms can be relieved. Sometimes veterinarians also recommend, adding food containing fish oil (which contains a lot of vitamin E) to the cat’s diet. Let your cat also “train its brain” to the extent that its physical condition allows, continue to play with your cat. Give him food puzzles or hide treats in the house. Keep your cat active.

Structure for your demented cat

Cats suffering from dementia perform well on structure. A demented cat can forget that he has already eaten and therefore eat too much. Try to maintain fixed times to feed your cat. In addition, it is nice for your demented cat if not too many changes take place. Do not slide too much with his basket, the scratching post and food bowl. This causes unnecessary stress.

Also interesting: common diseases with older cats and tips to make your cat’s life as pleasant as possible.