Yes, cats can get dementia, and it is usually called feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) or “feline dementia.”

What feline dementia is

Feline dementia is an age-related decline in brain function that affects memory, learning, and behavior, similar in some ways to Alzheimer’s disease in humans.

Researchers have found that some older cats with dementia have buildups of amyloid‑beta protein in their brains, one of the same key hallmarks seen in human Alzheimer’s.

How common it is

  • Many cats start showing subtle cognitive changes from about 7–11 years of age, even if they still seem generally healthy.
  • By around 10 years old, cats are considered seniors, and the risk of dementia increases further as they move into their mid-teens.
  • One survey suggests more than half of cats over 15 show at least one sign consistent with dementia, and nearly 30% of cats 11–14 show at least one possible sign.

Typical signs to watch for

Not every “weird” behavior is dementia, but common warning signs include:

  • Disorientation: seeming lost in familiar places, staring at walls, getting “stuck” in corners.
  • Sleep–wake changes: pacing or crying at night, sleeping more during the day.
  • House‑soiling: forgetting litter box habits, urinating or defecating in odd places.
  • Changed interaction: becoming unusually clingy or unusually withdrawn.
  • Increased vocalization: more meowing, especially confused‑sounding cries at night.
  • Changes in activity: restlessness, aimless wandering, or, conversely, marked decrease in exploration or play.

Because these signs overlap with other problems (pain, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, vision or hearing loss), a vet exam is essential before assuming it is dementia.

What vets can do

There is no cure, but there are ways to help a cat with dementia live more comfortably.

  • Medical work‑up
    • Full physical exam and blood/urine tests to rule out other illnesses.
* In some cases, imaging (like brain scans) may be used at specialist centers to investigate brain changes.
  • Possible treatments and supports
    • Specialist diets or supplements with antioxidants and omega‑3 fatty acids to support brain health.
* Environmental enrichment: gentle, regular play, food puzzles, climbing options adapted to an older body.

* Routine and predictability: feeding, play, and sleep at consistent times, minimal changes to furniture layout.

* Night‑time support: soft lighting, safe confined sleeping areas, and sometimes medications your vet prescribes for anxiety or sleep.

Caring for a cat that might have dementia

If you suspect dementia, contact a veterinarian promptly rather than waiting, because:

  • Some treatable diseases can look like dementia, and early treatment can greatly improve comfort.
  • Even when it is cognitive decline, early environmental and dietary changes can slow worsening in some cats and make day‑to‑day life easier.

Many caregivers on pet forums describe dementia as emotionally tough but manageable with adjustments, reassurance, and close collaboration with their vet team.

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Wondering “do cats get dementia”? Learn what feline cognitive dysfunction is, common signs in older cats, how common it is, and what you and your vet can do to help.

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