Cats are living longer than ever before - it's not unusual for
felines to reach their mid-to-late teens or even early twenties. A
longer lifespan, however, can leave felines frazzled if their once-spry
brains aren't properly stimulated. In fact, cats over the age of 15 can
develop feline cognitive dysfunction (FCD), a cat version of Alzheimer's
disease in which a starchlike, waxy protein (beta amyloid) collects in
the brain.
Feline Cognitive Dysfunction
The symptoms of FCD can frustrate owners because they often mimic
other behavior problems. In addition to acting disoriented, cats with
the condition may cry and pace, get lost in the house or even stuck in
corners. They can also act scared and have trouble sleeping. Most
felines with FCD develop hit-or-miss litter box tendencies - yuck! - and
even when they do find the box, they may not know what to do with it.
Perhaps most heartbreaking: Some senile kitties tend to shun petting,
ignore people and other companion animals, and stop recognizing a
beloved owner.
See Also: 9 Cat Breeds That Crave Affection
Unfortunately, there's no cure for FCD, but your vet may prescribe
medication that may help. But even with treatment, afflicted cats can
develop senility behavior signs again, which is why it's important to
focus on feline brain health long before FCD has a chance to strike.
Brain function studies in dogs proved that problem-solving activities
kept canines sharp, connected to the world around them and even extended
their lifespan. The old saying "use it or lose it" also applies to
cats, so here are some simple tips for keeping your feline mentally fit
well into her golden years.
See Also: 10 Feline Behavior Myths Decoded
Helping Your Cat Stay Mentally Spry
1. Train the Brain Early. To slow the progression of aging in
the brain, make sure your cat is physically active and mentally engaged
throughout her life - starting when she's a kitten.
2. Play Daily. Cats thrive on routine, and building play into
everyday life increases the chances that she'll stay active in later
years. Homemade toys like wads of paper, socks stuffed with catnip and
ribbons that you can drag on the floor cost little but bring huge
rewards.
3. Keep Her Physique in Check. Overweight cats avoid physical
exertion and prefer sleep and lap time to brainteasers. To encourage
exercise and problem solving, place food bowls at the top of stairs or
cat trees.
4. Create Some Kitty TV. Place bird feeders and birdbaths outside windows for your cat's viewing pleasure and brain-stimulating entertainment.
5. Build Obstacle Courses. Set up cat trees, empty boxes, paper bags and other hiding spots, so your feline can lounge, climb and explore.
6. Adopt a Younger Pet. A playful cat or dog, when introduced
safely and correctly, can turn back the clock and inspire an old-timer
to move her tail - and jump-start her sluggish brain.
7. Offer a New Leash on Life. Teach your cat to walk on a
leash, so she can safely explore the yard - or simply use her brain to
troubleshoot how to get out of the darn thing.
8. Teach With Treats. Call out "Fluffy, come!" Then turn on the can opener, and when the cat runs to you, reward her with a snack.
9. Pick Up a Puzzle. Toys that dispense treats mimic feline hunting behaviors, keeping cats entertained and mentally sharp.
10. Make Treasure Hunts Out of Meals. Hide saucers full of
small amounts of food all over the house - and place them at different
levels, so your cat must seek out the morsels.
Once cats reach their senior years, their companionship becomes even
more precious. If you pay attention to your kitty's mental health,
you'll keep her connected with life - and you - as long as possible.
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