Unfortunately, symptoms of old age are inevitable in both humans and our feline friends. In fact, according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, 50% of cats at 15 years of age (85 in humans) exhibit signs of brain aging. The impact of brain aging illnesses in senior cats can be significant not only on your cat, but on your entire family as well.
Signs of cognitive brain disorders in senior cats can include:
- Decreased interaction with humans and other pets
- Less desire to eat
- Urination or defecation outside the litter box
- Decreased problem-solving skills
- Less awareness of their surroundings
- Inconsistent sleep-wake cycles
- Loud crying – especially during nighttime hours
Just as humans can take steps to fight the signs of brain aging, so can your senior cat. In fact, this is when your cat needs you the most. With certain safety precautions, the right nutrition and mental stimulation, you can help your cat adjust to any behavior problems and keep them mentally fit as your cat grows older.
Tasty Tips
At mealtime, choose a food that’s rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids to help improve your cat’s cognitive function. Incorporate a puzzle ball or maze into feeding time to encourage your cat to hunt and stimulate brain activity.
At night, make sure your cat’s sleeping area is both quiet and safe. Be sure to keep a light or night light turned on to help with declining vision, and to better accommodate your cat’s altered sleep-wake cycles and added propensity to wander.
At all times, be sure to apply nonskid surfaces throughout the house, and add ramps or steps to allow your senior cat to reach places without having to jump. Increase the number and size of litter boxes to help with your cat’s increased waste elimination – another common behavioral change in senior cats.
Related products
Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley
Delicious tender chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce with precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pouch Variety 12 Pack Cat Food, Chicken & Beef, Salmon & Tuna
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Adult Oral Care Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Related articles
Cats with Sensitive Skin: Looking Beneath the Fur
Provide the best possible treatment for cats with sensitive skin by spotting the signs, knowing the causes, and understanding the remedies. Learn more now.
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Get helpful information on proper feline oral healthcare and why it's so vital to take care of your cat's teeth.
Weight Management
Obesity affects more than 30 percent of cats in America. Learn how you can properly feed and exercise your cat to improve its weight management.
Belly Upset: Soothing Your Cat's Sensitive Stomach
Understand the symptoms of a chronic upset stomach in your cat, and learn how to help sooth their discomfort.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.