Feline Alzheimer's

As a new report reveals that cats can suffer from mental illness, find out how to keep yours mentally fit

Is your pet cat showing signs of Alzheimer's? Text us your story on 81189 or email us using the form at the bottom.

A new report has revealed that ageing cats can suffer from memory loss similar to that in humans.

Scientists have discovered a key protein that can build up in the nerve cells in their brains and cause mental deterioration.

Dr Danielle Gunn-Moore, of Edinburgh University, says: "This newly discovered protein is crucial to our understanding of the ageing process in cats. We've known for a long time that cats develop dementia, but this study tells us that the cat's neural system is being compromised in a similar fashion to that we see in human Alzheimer's sufferers."

"The gritty plaques had only hinted that might be the case - now we know. The shorter lifespan of a cat, compared to humans, allows researchers to more rapidly assess the effects of diet, high blood pressure, and prescribed drugs on the course of the disease."

Danger signs
Pets with memory loss may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms:

• Confusion. Does your pet wander aimlessly, get lost in the house, or stare at the walls?
• Forgetfulness. Does your pet seem to forget his name, walk away while you pet him/her, or stop greeting you when you come home?
• Change in sleeping habit. Is he/she waking in the middle of the night? Is he/she sleeping more during the day?
• Loss of housetraining. Does your pet urinate or have bowel movements in your home minutes after being outside?

How to keep your pet mentally healthy
To reduce the risk of dementia vet experts recommend a good diet, frequent mental stimulation and companionship.

Good diet
Consult your vet and select the right food that meets your pet's nutritional needs. Remember that the diet may need to change as your pet ages. Also, be sure to schedule a geriatric exam when your dog turns 7 and your cat turns 8.

Play
Encourage your older cat to play his or her favourite stalking game to hone natural skills. Keep your older dog mentally stimulated by playing a game of hide and seek with food treats in various rooms.

Talk
Don't forget to keep talking to your older cat to strengthen relationships and nurture feelings of security. For older dogs, reinforce basic commands by having your dog "sit" before getting a treat or "come" when you are in one room and he/she is in another.

If you have immediate concerns about your pet, visit your vet as soon as possible.