Did you know that cats can get dementia, just as people can? This is by no means a death sentence for Fluffy: many of our feline friends are now living into their late teens or even 20’s. A kitty that is showing signs of dementia may still have many great years ahead of her. She’ll just need some extra TLC! A Marietta, GA vet discusses caring for a furball with dementia below.
Play
Did you know that playing offers Fluffy beneficial mental stimulation? Cats have to really focus to nail those tricky pounces! That eye-paw coordination will fire up parts of your furry buddy’s brain, which is great for her. Think of this as the kitty version of doing a crossword puzzle.
Comfort
Confusion and forgetfulness are both very common in kitties with dementia. Fluffy may forget where her water bowl is, or get lost on the way to the litterbox. She may meow loudly to vocalize her distress. Just try to soothe her as much as you can if she seems scared or unsettled.
Background Noise
Music soothes the savage beast … and the not-so-savage kitty cat. Leave a radio on for Fluffy if she is going to be home alone. The music and background noise will calm her and keep her from feeling lonely.
Stability
Our feline pals are creatures of habit, and they very much thrive on routine. Try to keep your furball on the same kitty schedule for meals and playtime. (Fluffy can sort out her busy napping schedule herself.) It will also help if you can avoid making major changes, such as adding a new pet or rearranging things. If these can’t be helped, show your pet some extra attention.
Veterinary Care
Keeping up with Fluffy’s veterinary care is also very important. Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.
Keep Kitty In
We can’t overstate the importance of this one. The last thing you want is for Fluffy to get out and forget how to get back home!
Love
Last but not least, make sure that your feline buddy feels loved and safe. Talking to her, petting her, and offering her lap space will help her feel cared for, which will go a long way towards soothing her.
Please reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your local Marietta, GA veterinary clinic, we are here to help!
