What You Should Know About Feline Dementia
Cats are often said to have nine lives because they are seemingly able to endure and survive many neardeath encounters. Unfortunately, just like every other living creature, they have only one life to live, and just like humans, an older cat can develop dementia, or feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Here is what cat owners should know about this disease.
What Is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?
Feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is a disease that appears to directly correlate to an aging brain. A cat with feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome shows deficits in learning new things and recalling things they have already learned. They also show decreased reaction to stimuli. Feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is not dissimilar to Alzheimer's disease in humans.
Why Do Cats Develop Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?
Improved healthcare isn't just extending people's average life expectancy - it is likely extending a cat's lifespan as well. Cats often live until they are 20 years of age or more. This is the equivalent of a person living to be about 100 years old. But feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is more than just old age.
No one knows what the specific cause of feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is. Though it may be a genetic component. Nutritional and environmental factors may also play a role. Additionally, changes seen in the brain in post-mortem studies are similar to the changes seen in people with Alzheimer's disease, such as a buildup of plaque in the brain and cerebral blood vessels.
What Are the Symptoms of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?
If your aging cat exhibits any of the following symptoms, they could be showing signs of feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
- Confusion and disorientation
- Anxiety and agitation
- Forgotten learned behaviors
- Changes
in sleeping patterns
- Changes
in energy level
- Excessive
meowing
- Antisocial
behavior
- Lack
of grooming
- Extreme
irritability
However, many changes take place in living organisms as they age. Health issues such as arthritis result in chronic pain and irritability. Frequent urinary tract infections and kidney failure can cause toileting problems. Dental issues may result in poor appetite. Your veterinarian should rule out these conditions and/or treat them before diagnosing dementia.
Twenty-eight percent of cats who are 11-14 years of age show at least one symptom associated with feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome. This figure jumps to 50 percent in cats 15 years of age and older.
How Is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome Treated?
There is no cure for feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome, and the disease is progressive. Your veterinarian may recommend dietary supplements to help with the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Additionally, the American Association of Feline Practitioners supports the off-label use of a psychoactive drug normally used in dogs with the disorder.
How Can You Help Your Cat With Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?
Cats are creatures of habit and tend to be very set in their ways. Most cats do not appreciate change and could become more stressed.
Make subtle changes that may help your cat. For example, if they seem to have toileting issues, add a second litter box to an area where they spend a lot of time. Provide new toys to stimulate their interest. Keep your household calm and do not introduce new pets. Feed them a diet rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, which can help retard aging effects. Your vet can recommend the best food for your cat.
If you are concerned your cat's behavior isn't just a normal part of aging, contact us today. We will give them a thorough examination to determine if they may have underlying health problems that are adversely affecting their behavior or if they are developing cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
