Feline cognitive dysfunction (FCD) is a cognitive disease prevalent in cats. It is also known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). Alzheimer's disease and dementia in humans are diseases with comparable symptoms and pathology.
Maps, Directions, and Place Reviews
Prevalence
Older cats display more symptoms of the disease than younger cats. Behavioural symptoms usually become apparent in cats older than 10 years.
Signs Of Dementia In Cats Video
Symptoms
Symptoms may include disorientation, restlessness, changes in behaviour with owners, disturbed sleep-wake cycles, house-soiling, and inappropriate vocalizations. The related vocalizations are often nocturnal. Decreased playfulness or activity, and increased aggression may also be signs of the disease. Diagnosis is made by ruling out other possible causes such as brain tumors.
The acronym DISH (for disorientation, interaction, sleep and housetraining) is used for the symptoms of the disease.
Treatment
The disease is incurable, but its symptoms can be managed with treatment. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome in dogs is an established diagnosis, but there has been limited research for cats and treatment options are limited. Drugs used for treatment of the disease have been approved for use in dogs. However, they are used off-label in treatment of cats. Early diagnosis improves results of long-term treatment.
Improving home environment may help in managing the disease.
Source of the article : Wikipedia
EmoticonEmoticon