Night-time Tips for Cats With Cognitive Dysfunction

Dementia-like behaviour in older cats is called Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) and can affect your cat’s sleep cycle. Your cat may nap more during the day, leaving her awake and possibly restless and anxious at night when you are sleeping and unavailable to offer her attention. If your older cat is showing symptoms of cognitive dysfunction, such as nighttime vocalizing, making her as comfortable as possible can help. Offer a number of warm, draft-free resting spots—as cats age they are less able to regulate their body temperature. Plugging in a nightlight can help cats with declining vision navigate in the dark. And a radio left on low volume may comfort her when the rest of the family is sleeping.