Feline Dementia Symptoms

Feline dementia, also called feline cognitive dysfunction, is a condition similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. It affects mostly cats over the age of 11, with the chance of developing the condition and its symptoms increasing with age. The Welfare of Cats suggests that early detection of feline dementia is integral to treating it successfully.

  1. Excessive vocalization

    • One of the signs of feline dementia is frequent, persistent and unfocused vocalization. Meowing is normal, but excessive, plaintive meowing may indicate an underlying cause, such as cognitive dysfunction. If you feel that your cat is meowing too much, or if there is a sudden, unexplained increase in vocalization, consult a veterinarian. He can determine if there is an underlying problem that should be treated.

    Disorientation

    • Feline dementia symptoms include disorientation. A cat with cognitive dysfunction may pace, act confused and have trouble gauging distances. He may also have problems recognizing familiar locations, animals or people.

    Behavioral Changes

    • Feline dementia causes general changes in a cat's behavior. Some of these changes include becoming aggressive, inattentive or inactive. Feline cognitive disorder may also cause a cat to stop interacting with his family.