Feline Alzheimer's

Cats, like their human companions, are living longer, and like people, can get diseases of old age such as arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney problems and dementia.

10 Clues that Your Cat Has Dementia

1. Spatial disorientation or confusion - getting trapped in corners or forgetting the location of the litter box. House-soiling is the most common reason for referral of old cats to animal behaviouralists.

2. Altered relationships either with their owners or other pets in the household - increased attention seeking or aggression

3. Increased irritability or anxiety, or decreased response to stimuli

4. Changes in sleeping patterns

5. Inappropriate vocalisation such as loud crying at night

6. Loss of memory, such as forgetting commands or breaking house training

7. Changes in activity - aimless wandering or pacing, or reduced activity

8. Lack of interest in food, although some cats actually want more food.

9. Decreased grooming

10. Confusion about time, such as forgetting that they have just been fed

Cats with CDS or feline dementia can still enjoy life if their symptoms are recognised early enough. Treatment options include:

• food fortified with antioxidants and vitamins,
• a stimulating environment with toys and playtimes with their favourite human
• medications prescribed by the vet.

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

Such cats should have a safe quiet space, perhaps just one room, where they can find everything easily and feel in control.

Dr Gunn-Moore also suggests applying synthetic feline appeasement pheromone to the cat’s rug or cushion can help to calm stressed or nervous animals.

Read more at Suite101: Does Your Cat Have Alzheimer's?: 10 Symptoms of Feline Dementia | Suite101.com http://sue-cartledge.suite101.com/does-your-cat-have-alzheimers-a42499#ixzz1Zl8qmEjn