Senior Cat Comfort & Care

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Kitty dementia is real

If you have a senior cat, you should know about Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (also referred to as CDS or feline dementia). It's similar to Alzheimer's in humans, affecting your cat's behavior. CDS is found in as high as 50% of cats over 15.

Cats feeling the effects of CDS commonly start to vocalize excessively and at odd times, like overnight. It can be difficult to distract them.

You may also notice confusion, changes in sleep patterns, house soiling, anxiety, and challenges with memory and learning new things.

At the slightest sign of CDS, reach out to your veterinarian. There is no cure. However, supplementation and other supportive medical interventions can slow progression and improve your cat's quality of life.

Environmental changes are also vital. Things like minimizing stress and fear for anxious cats, avoiding big changes around the home, like moving furniture, and providing plenty of bonding time and mental enrichment can help your senior kitty feel more secure and supported as they move into what can be a scary time in their lives.

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