Cat Dementia: Signs, Treatments and Causes

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

Watching your cat enjoy their golden years is truly a gift. But just like humans, aging cats are at risk of developing health issues. If your kitty's behaviors start to change in unusual ways, it may be time to visit your veterinarian.

Older cats can develop feline cognitive dysfunction, which is more commonly known as cat dementia. And while this diagnosis may sound scary and sad, there are steps you can take to help your kitty feel more comfortable, safe and happy. Medication, supplements and even playtime can help slow their decline—especially when dementia is diagnosed early.

This guide will walk you through how to recognize cat dementia and what you can do medically, nutritionally and practically to help your senior kitty thrive.

What Is Dementia in Cats?

Feline cognitive dysfunction, which many commonly refer to as "cat dementia," is an age-related condition. In many ways, it's similar to dementia (more specifically, Alzheimer's disease) in humans.¹

Changes in your kitty's aging brain can reduce its ability to process information, leading to behavioral changes like meowing at strange times or acting disoriented. Early intervention can help slow progression, so it's very important to see your veterinarian if you have any concerns.²

Signs of Dementia in Cats

Dementia symptoms tend to be more noticeable in cats who are 10 years old or older.² Veterinarians summarize these dementia symptoms with the acronym VISHDAL, which stands for Vocalizations, Interactions, Sleep-wake cycle, House soiling, Disorientation, Activity levels, and Learning and memory.¹

Here are some examples of cat dementia symptoms you might see in your senior kitty:¹

• Meowing loudly in the middle of the night for hours
• Loss of interest in playing²
• Sleeping more than normal²
• Not greeting you when you return home or not responding to their name, if they normally did
• Not recognizing family
• Peeing or pooping near where they sleep rather than in the litter box
• Staring blankly into space for a long time, for no apparent reason²
• Change in interest in food or water²
• Getting stuck behind furniture
• Trouble moving out of tight spaces

Causes of Dementia in Cats

Age is the single biggest risk factor when it comes to feline dementia. Research reveals that 28% of cats aged 11 to 14 display some change in social interactions that might indicate dementia. And 50% of cats over 15 exhibit symptoms of aimless activity and excessive vocalization.¹

While the exact cause of dementia in cats isn't known, researchers have documented amyloid-beta deposits, neuronal loss, atrophy and vascular changes in the brains of aging cats, which may contribute to the condition.¹

How Is Cat Dementia Diagnosed?

There's no single test to diagnose cat dementia. It's typically a diagnosis of exclusion after other causes are ruled out.

For example, an older cat might not respond to its name because of hearing problems.¹ It might not be interested in food because its sense of smell isn't good.³ Even dental problems can diminish food interest.² Your kitty might change their litter box behavior because of arthritis or kidney issues. Even high blood pressure, inflammation in the brain or tumors can lead to dementia-like symptoms.²

This means that diagnosing cat dementia is a multistep process that might include:¹

• Comprehensive questionnaire related to the VISHDAL dementia symptoms
• Detailed history of your pet's symptoms and changes in your home that might cause confusion
• Blood tests that include checking for other illnesses like hyperthyroidism
• Urinalysis
• Blood pressure check
• Physical exam
• Eye exam
• X-rays to check for issues like arthritis⁴
• MRI to look for brain changes like atrophy (Some cats with dementia may have MRIs that look normal.)
• Possible pain medication trial to see if your cat's symptoms improve⁴

If medical conditions other than dementia are discovered, your cat will be treated for these first to see if the cognitive symptoms lessen.¹

Medical Treatment Options for Cat Dementia

While there is no cure for cat dementia, a multipronged therapeutic approach that includes regular veterinary visits can help slow decline and even ease some symptoms. Treatments will typically involve medication, supplements and creating a dementia-friendly home with opportunities for mental stimulation.⁵ (Please see the last section of this article for tips on home care for dementia kitties.)

Your veterinarian might consider a variety of medications, such as:¹

• Anipryl (selegiline), a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor used off-label in cats, which may improve disorientation
• Antidepressants
• Anxiety medication to relieve secondary stress
• Gabapentin for anxiety or pain⁴

Supplements and Diet

Your veterinarian may recommend supplements or dietary changes to help kitties with dementia, such as:¹

• Phosphatidylserine for memory and activity level
• Ginkgo biloba for blood flow in the brain and glucose metabolism
• Antioxidants like vitamin E and vitamin C⁶
• Omega-3 fatty acids⁶
• Arginine⁶
• Medium-chain triglycerides⁶
• S-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe), a type of antioxidant⁴
• Novifit for cats
• Aktivait (feline version only)
• A prescription food designed to support brain health or promote calming⁴

Dietary changes tend to help most when combined with mental stimulation and enrichment.⁵ Just remember to ask your veterinarian before trying a new supplement or diet. Recommendations change frequently, and you need to ensure that what you're trying won't interact negatively with your cat's medication.

Longevity and Outlook for Cats With Dementia

With supportive care, many senior cats can live comfortably for years after diagnosis. Depending on your cat's age when diagnosed, they may even end up living the average lifespan.⁴

Just keep an eye out for worsening symptoms. If your kitty reaches a point where they no longer have a good quality of life—they aren't interested in things they used to like or they are barely eating—it may be time to talk to your veterinarian about euthanasia.⁷ While this is a heartbreaking decision that no one wants to face, sometimes it is the most loving decision you can make. Your veterinarian will help you know if this time comes.

Prevention and Early Intervention

While there's no surefire way to prevent dementia, you can take steps to reduce your cat's chances of developing cognitive decline. In addition, catching dementia as early as possible can make a big difference. Cats older than 10 years should have regular veterinarian visits with thorough physical, orthopedic and eye exams. Ideally, they'll also get screenings for cognitive decline.¹

Providing your senior cat with mental enrichment and a supportive environment can help prevent or slow dementia. This might include:¹

• Exercise: Physical activity is good for the brain. Have regular play sessions, adjusted for your senior kitty's endurance.
• Outdoor time: Going outdoors can be mentally enriching, but it must be done safely.³ If your kitty is harness trained, go for walks or take your cat on a hike. Or set up an outside catio.
• Supportive environment to reduce stress: Put rugs on slippery floors and add ramps or stairs to help your kitty get on and off furniture more easily.
• Visual stimulation: Open the shades so your cat can see outside, and play YouTube videos designed for cats.
• Mental stimulation: Encourage your kitty to play with toys. Hide treats in a puzzle feeder. Provide safe new scents and experiences, like bringing in a feather from outside.
• Enticing foods: Provide small treats with new flavors (but note that overdoing it could upset their stomach). Or gently warm up canned food to give it a more enticing aroma.

Daily Management and Care Tips

Take steps to help make your home a friendlier and safer place for your senior kitty with dementia. This includes a combination of stress reducers and opportunities for mental stimulation to keep your cat's little brain active.

Reducing stress in the home

Take steps to reduce sudden changes or other sources of stress in your home:⁴

• Don't move furniture or make any other big changes that might confuse your kitty.
• Maintain routines like playtime and sleep schedules.⁸
• Set up an automatic feeder to give a soothing, middle-of-the-night meal.
• Add rugs to prevent slipping on floors, and pet stairs for access to furniture.³
• Play soothing background music when they're alone at home.⁸
• Play soft music at night to keep them calm.
• Move the litter box, food and water bowls to a place that's easier to access.
• Install night-lights to help with navigating after dark.³
• Be calm, patient and soothing if your kitty meows because they're confused.⁸
• Take care of yourself: Talk to friends and seek out online support groups.

Maintaining mental simulation

While you don't want to stress out your kitty, you do want to keep them mentally stimulated to help slow cognitive decline. This might include:¹

• Gently playing with your kitty regularly⁸
• Playing cat-focused videos on YouTube
• Setting up a bird feeder outside your window to entertain your cat
• Introducing puzzle feeders or a treat ball
• Playing scent games (like hiding a treat in a small pot of cat grass)
• Bonding with your kitty in their favorite ways (brushing, cuddles in your lap)

Approach Feline Dementia With Love

If you notice changes in your cat's behavior—like vocalization, sleep or litter habits—schedule a checkup with your veterinarian. A diagnosis of feline cognitive dysfunction simply means you'll need to approach caring for your kitty with new strategies rooted in patience, structure and close veterinary care. And early detection can give you a chance to provide medication and enrichment that may keep your cat's mind sharper longer.

Pets Best Can Help You Keep Your Cat Healthy

Pet insurance is a great way to help you protect your cat from illnesses they may encounter as they age, including dementia. At Pets Best, our cat insurance plans can be customized for your pet's unique needs. In addition, Pets Best policyholders can speak to a veterinary expert anytime through a 24/7 Pet Helpline.

Sources/ Citations

1. "Updates on cognitive dysfunction syndrome," Wailani Sung (1/2025), Today's Veterinary Practice: Continuing Education, https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/12/TVP-2025-0102_Cognitive-Dysfunction-Syndrome.pdf
2. "Cognitive dysfunction," (2024), Cornell Feline Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/cognitive-dysfunction
3. "Achieve successful aging by navigating behavioral shifts in senior pets," Sydney Yankowicz (2/26/2024), DVM360, https://www.dvm360.com/view/achieve-successful-aging-by-navigating-behavioral-shifts-in-senior-pets?
4. "Dementia in cats," Melissa Boldan (11/28/2023), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/neurological/dementia-cats
5. "Managing cognitive dysfunction and behavioral anxiety," (12/13/2022), American Animal Hospital Association, https://www.aaha.org/resources/2023-aaha-senior-care-guidelines-for-dogs-and-cats/managing-cognitive-dysfunction-and-behavioral-anxiety/
6. "Enhancing cognitive functions in aged dogs and cats: a systematic review of enriched diets and nutraceuticals," Tiphaine Blanchard et al. (1/18/2025), GeroScience, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11357-025-01521-z?
7. "What to know about dementia in cats," Christine Loconti (2/14/2024), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/what-to-know-about-dementia-in-cats
8. "Caring for a cat with dementia," (2/15/2022), Smyrna Animal Hospital, https://www.smyrnaveterinary.com/2022/02/15/marietta-ga-vet-caring-for-a-cat-with-dementia/