Aug. 14, 2007 — Mental disorders associated with aging, including Alzheimer's, are far more common in domesticated cats than previously realized, with more than half of all cats over age 15 showing signs of senility, according to a forthcoming Journal of Small Animal Practice paper.
The findings support a growing body of evidence suggesting that most, if not all, mammals, can suffer age-related conditions normally associated with people.
In the case of cats, the main difference is that a 15-year-old individual can be compared to an 85-year-old person. Another recent study found that about half of all octogenarians, too, show signs of dementia.
The behaviors associated with senility in cats range from acting disoriented to changes in their social relationships, to shifting sleep habits, said lead author Danielle Gunn-Moore, head of the Feline Clinic at the University of Edinburgh's Hospital for Small Animals.
They may also include inappropriate vocalizing, forgetting commands, breaking housetraining, pacing, wandering, sluggishness, unusual interest or disinterest in food, and decreased grooming and confusion, such as "forgetting that they have just been fed," said Gunn-Moore.
These behaviors can also be associated with other health conditions, such as thyroid problems and diabetes. To rule out those possibilities, one of Gunn-Moore's team members, Kelly Moffat of Arizona's Mesa Animal Hospital, conducted a study on 154 geriatric cats brought to local vets.
Based on Moffat's results, the researchers concluded that 28 percent of pet cats aged 11 to 14 develop at least one brain-linked behavior problem associated with aging. That percentage then jumps to over 50 for cats 15 years or older.
By visiting this site, you agree to the terms and conditions
of our Visitor Agreement. Please read. Privacy Policy.
ATTENTION! We recently updated our privacy policy. The changes are effective as of Tuesday, October 30, 2007.
To see the new policy, click here. Questions? See the policy for the contact information.
