Companion Animals

Cat Senior Cognitive Dysfunction Management

Feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome in elderly cats causes confusion, disorientation, and anxiety that can be managed with environmental and medical approaches.

Key Facts

Feline CDS affects an estimated 36% of cats aged 11-14 and over 50% at 15 years
Clinical signs include yowling at night, litter box misuse, and reduced interaction
Environmental predictability and enrichment slow progression
Selegiline is licensed for CDS in some countries with modest benefits
Antioxidant-rich diets may provide some benefit through oxidative stress reduction

Welfare Considerations

Cognitive dysfunction causes genuine confusion and anxiety in elderly cats. Night-time yowling reflects disorientation and distress. Environmental support through predictable routines, nightlights, and litter box proximity reduces confusion-related suffering. Early recognition allows earlier intervention to slow progression.

What You Can Do

Watch for behaviour changes in cats over 10 years - yowling, disorientation, changed sleep
Maintain predictable routines for senior cats to reduce confusion
Consult your vet about CDS diagnosis and management options including selegiline