Feline dementia is caused by lesions that appear in your cat's brain as she ages. Symptoms vary between felines, but generally include:
- ???????? Disorientation.
- ???????? Abnormal social behavior.
- ???????? loss of appetite
- ???????? Anxiety.
- ???????? Inability to recognize people.
- ???????? Alterations in sleep patterns.
- ???????? Increased vocalization.
- ???????? Loss of litter box training or other learned activities.
These ten steps can help make life with feline dementia easier and more comfortable for your cat. Health is too important:
- ???????? prevent dementia
The best method of coping with dementia is to prevent it before it starts. This includes regularly but carefully introducing new stimuli into your cat's environment. Try different kinds of toys and encourage your cat to play every day. Don't let her get loose.
- ???????? Use reward training
Even if your cat already has signs of dementia, try teaching her to do something new, even if it's a simple trick. It will help your mind stay active. It is suggested to train the cat to go looking for food or to jump on a particular piece of furniture on command.
Use some healthy workouts to help him learn. It may or may not be able to learn the new behavior you're looking for, but it's worth a try because it will challenge its mind otherwise.
- ???????? Reduce stress
Cats with dementia have high anxiety. Find out what is contributing to your cat's stress and find ways to eliminate or lessen it. It could be that he has arthritis and has trouble getting up on furniture.
In that case, try installing ramps to make moving easier. Likewise, if your cat is having trouble finding or getting to the litter box, move it to a more accessible location.
- ???????? Evaluate nutrition and supplements
It's important to re-evaluate your cat's diet as she ages. The nutritional needs of a cat vary according to age. B vitamins and good-quality fish oil, which contains essential Omega-3 fatty acids, can help keep your brain sharp.
- ???????? Observe their behavior
Watch your elderly cat closely and alert your vet to any changes in behavior, even if it seems small. It's important to catch feline dementia as early as possible so you can begin steps to lessen it.
- ???????? wear a harness
If your cat is already experiencing disorientation and can't be trusted, don't give up entirely. It is vitally important that your cat has changes in his environment to stimulate his mind. That includes new scenarios. Try to train him to use a harness and leash, and take him on hikes every so often. If your cat won't accept wearing a harness, consider investing in an outdoor cat enclosure.
