Like humans, cats now enjoy longer lifespans and are susceptible to suffer from senile dementia. It affects a high number of cats over 15 years of age, more than 50% according to Dr Danielle Gunn-Moore. Recent research on elderly cats’ neural cells has shown the presence of an amyloid protein similar to that present in humans suffering from Alzheimer’s. Signs of dementia (showing cognitive dysfunction) to look out for are:
The cat is excessively vocal, demanding attention, especially at night.
It appears confused and disoriented, sometimes unable to locate familiar places, like its food bowl or litter tray.
It can lose interest in play and be less active than before.
It can eat less, or on the contrary demand food often, having forgotten it has eaten before.
It can neglect grooming.
There can be a sudden decline in its interest or pleasure at interacting with its owner, or on the contrary, demand constant contact.
In advanced cases, its reflexes and sensory acuity can be impaired.
The cat is excessively vocal, demanding attention, especially at night.
It appears confused and disoriented, sometimes unable to locate familiar places, like its food bowl or litter tray.
It can lose interest in play and be less active than before.
It can eat less, or on the contrary demand food often, having forgotten it has eaten before.
It can neglect grooming.
There can be a sudden decline in its interest or pleasure at interacting with its owner, or on the contrary, demand constant contact.
In advanced cases, its reflexes and sensory acuity can be impaired.