Many Owners Don’t Realise That Cats, Like Humans, Can Suffer From Dementia

Eight signs your cat may have dementia Feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome, also known as feline dementia, is an age-related decline in a cat’s cognitive abilities. Many owners don’t realise that cats, like humans, can suffer from dementia. A recent paper found many similarities between feline and human dementia, suggesting cognitive impairment may develop in similar ways.

The condition is generally characterised by behavioural changes that cannot be attributed to other medical conditions. Such changes are often the first indication something is wrong, so knowing the warning signs is crucial. There are eight signs to look out for, but because they overlap with other common conditions such as arthritis and kidney disease, it is important to consult a vet to rule out these causes.

Feline dementia is thought to be very common in older cats. One study found that by 15 years of age, more than half of cats showed signs of dementia, while some behaviour associated with the condition has been identified in cats as young as seven. A separate survey of cat owners also found that around 28% of cats aged between 11 and 14 exhibited at least one behavioural change associated with dementia.