Feline Dementia

[Randi]

I'm sorry to hear about Pichu. It seems a little early for dementia, he's not that old, but you never know. I read the links Catty posted... thanks! Some of it fits on Fister. He keeps me awake meowing half the night sometimes, but other than that, he seems to be OK - eats, drinks, pees and poops in his box and even want to go down now and again. Last week, he was meowing for me in the yard, though, which is very unusual.

"The change seen with senior dementia is one of increased or excessive vocalizations, and not just a simple meow. Some cats appear to develop a separation anxiety at night."

I hope you will find a diet that can slow down this and Pichu will be happy for years to come.

[Cataholic]

Gosh, Vio, I haven't seen you around here for ages. I didn't even know you had moved back to the states.

I think it is pretty early for dementia. Could there be other things? Could it be arthritis pain, and when Pichu stands up, it hurts and it is distracting? Could it be a dental issue? Ears? I am sure you had him completely check over, just mentioning things.

Please, keep us posted.

Johanna

[lizbud]

Sorry to hear Pichu is not well. Could he have had a fall or injury while you were away?
I hope you are able to find something to help him feel better soon.

[phesina]

Prayers and healing energies for dear Pichu, that this is something that can be treated or managed without too much trouble and that he is doing well again soon.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear this. He does sound like he's too young for dementia unless he's older than you think he is. I know that before my RB Storm had to be put to sleep, he would also some times start howling like he was lost. It would only last a minute or so until he heard my voice and I helped to calm him down but it was scary to watch. His back legs would also give out on him and he became so bad that he could barely walk and he also had a hard time using the litter boxes. His health was deteriorating before my eyes and I knew it was time to let him go. Hopefully you'll be able to find out what's causing this. Maybe it's some kind of a neurological problem. Do you have a vet that specializes in cats near you? Maybe you should get a second opinion. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent his way.

[Vio&Juni]

Thank you all for your kind words.

We are still not sure it's dementia, but everyone is suggesting that.

Pichu doesn't seem to be in pain, even when his hind legs are shaking (and that happens rarely). The first thing that led us to think it's dementia is how he just stares into a corner or wall sometimes.

He's had a few better days and we're just taking it one day at a time, enjoying the time we have with him. I will ask the vet about the medication and we'll give it a try.

Johanna, unfortunately I am not posting too often here, just once in a while. If I only had the time to do everything I want, but there are not enough hours in a day.

[Barbara]

I am so sorry to hear about your gentle giant. Even if it should not be feline dementia- that leg shaking symptom sounds like something in his brain is not ok
I hope he will be happy for as much as possible time to come.