Signs of cat Alzheimer's

Older cats can suffer from feline cognitive dysfunction

- DR DAVID GRANT

My cat is nearly 15. Apart from sleeping more he still seems to enjoy life and enjoys his food. But is it possible that cats can suffer from Alzheimer's? If so, what are the signs, and are any treatments available?

Cats frequently suffer from a disease very similar to Alzheimer’s disease in people. The disease is known as feline cognitive dysfunction.

Recent research from the Edinburgh Veterinary School, in conjunction with research institutions in Scotland and the US, has demonstrated a similar pathology in cats and humans. In particular, nerve endings in cats become congested with a toxic protein called amyloid beta. This leads to nerve cell damage and signs of the disease.