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Signs Of Dementia In Kitties

February 14, 2022

Did you know that cats can develop dementia, just like people can? As Fluffy ages, you’ll want to watch for signs that she is experiencing a cognitive decline. A local Salem, VA veterinarian lists some of the red flags to watch for in this article.

Disorientation

Disorientation in cats can be tricky to spot: Fluffy can’t exactly tell you if she is confused. However, if she seems disoriented, looks or acts confused, or seems lost, she may have dementia.

Irritability

If your furry pal is normally sweet, but suddenly is acting grouchy and/or aggressive, dementia could be to blame.

Grooming Changes

Sometimes, kitties with dementia will neglect their coats. This will leave their fur looking matted and tangled. Other cats will go the other way, and lick or groom themselves excessively.

Soiling

Litterbox issues are another red flag. This can sometimes be an incontinence issue, but it could also be due to dementia. Either way, it would warrant a call to the vet.

Withdrawal

Fluffy often withdraws when something is bothering her, or when she doesn’t feel well. If your feline buddy seems to be spending most of her time by herself, there may be something going on with her.

Changes In Activity Levels

It’s normal for kitties to slow down as they get older. However, a sudden, steep decline in energy is definitely not normal.

Anxiety

Fluffy may notice that things are changing, but she won’t understand what is happening. This, understandably, can make her very anxious. This can reveal itself in a variety of ways: she may shed heavily, go off her food, or act clingy.

Vocalizations

Cats with dementia often meow to vocalize their fear and distress. If your furry friend is suddenly meowing a lot more than usual, dementia is one possibility.

Clinginess

Sometimes kitties with dementia just want to be comforted. Fluffy may seem especially clingy, and may not want to let you out of her sight. Just do what you can to comfort her.

Schedule Changes

Our feline companions are definitely creatures of habit. Many cats follow the same daily schedule for their meals, meditation and beauty sessions, naps, sunbathing, and playtime. If Fluffy’s kitty agenda suddenly seems out of whack, dementia could be setting in.

If you know or suspect that your cat has dementia, contact us, your Salem, VA vet clinic, today. We’re here for you!

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