How CBD Oil Helps Cats with Dementia

As cats get older, cat parents start noticing the little changes: sleepier days, extra meows, and maybe even a bit more “senior sass.” But sometimes, these changes point to something more than just the golden years. Feline Cognitive Dysfunction (FCD), commonly known as cat dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in older cats characterized by behavioral changes such as disorientation, altered social interactions, changes in sleep-wake cycles, house-soiling, increased vocalization, and anxiety (Landsberg, G., Nichol, J., & Araujo, J., 2012;  Landsberg, G., Denenberg, S., & Araujo, J., 2010). According to a study in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, “Feline cognitive dysfunction (FCD) is a common condition affecting cats aged 8 years, with inappropriate vocalization being the most common clinical sign,” (MacQuiddy, B., et al., 2022).

While there’s no magic cure for cat dementia, one treatment has gained a lot of attention for helping manage symptoms: cannabidiol, or CBD oil. Yes, CBD isn’t just for humans or dogs; it’s making waves for its potential benefits in supporting senior cats through their aging years with a bit more comfort and ease.

Understanding Feline Dementia: Spotting the Signs

Cats are champions at keeping secrets, especially when it comes to hiding pain or discomfort. So, when dementia sneaks in, it is easy to miss the signs at first. Typically, cats enter their senior years around 8-10, though each kitty ages differently depending on genetics and overall health.

Common signs of aging in cats

Physical Slowing Down: Climbing up to that favorite perch isn’t as easy, and maybe a cat seems a bit stiffer after napping.

Weight Loss or Muscle Decline: Senior cats often lose a bit of weight or muscle tone, leading to a thinner, bonier appearance.

Mood Shifts: A normally calm cat gets grumpy or even growly. Some demand extra space.

Vocal Changes: If a cat is vocalizing more, especially at night, it is their way of saying something’s off.

These changes do not automatically scream “dementia,” but they are signs that a cat is aging and deserves a veterinary visit to make sure all is well. Some symptoms, like weight loss or increased vocalization, also point to other health issues.

Recognizing Cat Dementia (Feline Cognitive Dysfunction)

While cats keep minor aches to themselves, the more noticeable symptoms of feline dementia aren’t so easy to ignore (MacQuiddy, B., et al., 2022). Some telltale signs to watch for are listed below.

Disorientation: A cat suddenly seems lost in familiar spaces, getting “stuck” in odd corners or staring into space (Sordo, L., & Gunn-Moore, D., 2021).

Changing Sleep-Wake Patterns: Cats with dementia often sleep more during the day and wander at night, sometimes with lots of meowing.

Reduced Interest in Play: A cat loses interest in toys or social interaction, sometimes even becoming clingier out of anxiety.

Litter Box Accidents: Forgetting where the litter box is or becoming disoriented leads to accidents outside their usual spot.  Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) and other age-related conditions in older cats are significant contributors to litter box accidents and other behavioral issues.

Reduced Grooming and Pacing: Some cats show less interest in grooming, while others pace or wander.

Spotting these symptoms in a senior cat is key. A veterinary consultation rules out other conditions and helps confirm a dementia diagnosis. Prompt action reduces stress for both parents and their cat, and CBD oil offers help in easing these symptoms.

The Role of CBD Oil in Managing Cat Dementia

So, where does CBD come in? Cannabidiol (CBD) is part of the hemp plant’s therapeutic toolkit. While formal studies on CBD in cats are limited, many pet owners and vets have observed CBD’s positive impact on aging animals, especially in helping to manage symptoms related to anxiety, stress, and discomfort.

How CBD Works in Cats

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a sort of “control center” for many vital functions. It influences things like:

• Pain perception
• Mood and memory
• Appetite and digestion
• Inflammation and immune response
• Sleep and body temperature regulation

While the body naturally produces cannabinoids, they decrease with age. A study on the dynamic changes in the endocannabinoid (eCB) system during the aging process revealed that the eCB system experiences a middle-age crisis with decreased signaling, potentially offering a window for therapeutic interventions to slow cognitive aging (Nidadavolu, P., et al., 2022). Supplementing with CBD positively regulates ECS, which promotes general wellness, especially in senior cats experiencing symptoms of dementia.

Potential Benefits of CBD for Senior Cats with Dementia

So, what does CBD do for an aging feline friend? Some of the potential benefits are listed below.

Neuroprotective Properties: CBD is believed to have neuroprotective effects, possibly helping slow down cognitive decline. A human trial showed that “Daily treatment with CBD over a 12-week period improves neurobiological, behavioral, and psychological outcomes in individuals with early-stage dementia,” (Bartschi, J., et al., 2022). Another research suggests CBD helps with brain cell regeneration (Kim, J., et al., 2021), while a separate animal trial also concluded that “CBD treatment prevents cognitive and emotional impairments, attenuates hippocampal neurodegeneration, and promotes neurogenesis and dendritic restructuring in ischemic mice,” (Mori, M., et al., 2017). Since cats have similar ECS systems, they also experience these benefits. 

Calming Anxiety and Reducing Stress: Dementia-related anxiety causes serious distress in cats. CBD’s calming effects reduce stress and support more restful sleep, which often improves mood and boosts appetite. An animal study showed that “Repeated CBD administration prevents long-lasting anxiogenic effects in rats exposed to predators, possibly by facilitating 5HT1A receptors neurotransmission,” (Campos, A., Ferreira, F., & Guimarães, F., 2012).

Pain Relief: Joint pain is common in senior cats. CBD’s natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties help with these aches, allowing older cats more comfort and mobility. A case report in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Science concluded that “CBD and THC treatment decreased chronic osteoarthritic pain in a cat by more than 50%,” (Gutierre, E., et al., 2023). 

Easy to Administer: CBD comes in a range of cat-friendly forms like flavored treats or tinctures, making it easy to give without a fight. This is a game-changer for cats who aren’t thrilled about new medicines!

Choosing the Best CBD Oil for A Cat

Finding the right CBD oil means balancing quality and safety. Here’s what to look for:

Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: A full-spectrum oil offers a range of cannabinoids and other compounds, which work together to create an “entourage effect” that enhances the therapeutic benefits of CBD.

Purity and Transparency: Look for products made from organic hemp and free of pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants. Brands like Paws and Claws offer third-party lab test results so buyers know what’s in the bottle.

Cat-Safe Carrier Oils: Cats metabolize certain oils, less effectively. A safer option is a lighter oil, such as safflower oil.

Right Dosage for Cats: CBD dosage depends on factors like weight and the specific symptoms being targeted. Start with a small amount, around  0.2 mg per pound of body weight, and monitor how a cat reacts. Increase gradually if needed.

How to Give A Cat CBD Oil

Most cats aren’t fans of having medicine shoved in their mouths. Luckily, CBD oil is also administered in ways that don’t stress them out.

Mix It in Their Food: This is an easy, seamless way to introduce CBD oil into a cat’s routine. Just add a few drops into their bowl at mealtime.

Try Topical Application: Some owners report success with applying CBD oil to a cat’s paw. Cats are naturally inclined to groom and lick the oil off.

Important Tips for Starting CBD

Veterinary Approval First: Always consult the cat’s attending veterinarian before introducing any new supplements, especially if a cat is on medication or has other health conditions. CBD interacts with certain drugs, and veterinarians guide pet parents on dosage.

Monitor Side Effects: Most cats tolerate CBD well, but watch for any changes like drowsiness, appetite changes, or digestive issues. If these occur, take a break from CBD and talk to the cat’s vet.

Manage Expectations: While CBD supports better quality of life, it’s not a cure-all. For best results, use CBD as part of a broader approach that includes environmental support and lots of TLC.

Supporting A Cat Beyond CBD

Alongside CBD, a comfortable and familiar environment makes a world of difference for cats with dementia. Some ideas to create a supportive space are listed below.

Keep It Consistent: Cats with dementia need stability. Keep food bowls, litter boxes, and beds in the same spots to reduce confusion.

Add Lighting: Nightlights help with disorientation at night. Motion-activated lights near litter boxes make nighttime navigation easier.

Scent Markers: Scent is a powerful navigation tool for cats. Avoid washing the cat’s bedding too often, as familiar smells provide comfort.

Safe Retreats: Provide cozy, quiet spaces for when a cat wants to be alone. Reducing stress is key in dementia care.

Gentle Stimulation: Encourage light play and gentle interaction to keep a cat engaged and mentally stimulated. This helps support cognitive health.

Final Thoughts

Watching a beloved cat struggle with dementia is incredibly hard for cat parents, but remember, you’re not alone in this. CBD oil offers a natural way to ease some of the symptoms, whether it’s helping a cat relax, improving sleep, or just bringing a bit of extra comfort to those golden years.

Remember, CBD for cats is still evolving as a science, but with Paws and Claws offering quality, cat-friendly options, you’re in good hands to support a feline through the seasons ahead.

References

• Bartschi, J., Greenwood, L., Montgomery, A., Dortants, L., Weston-Green, K., Huang, X., Pai, N., Potter, J., Schira, M., Croft, R., & Solowij, N. (2022). Cannabidiol as a Treatment for Neurobiological, Behavioral, and Psychological Symptoms in Early-Stage Dementia: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial Protocol. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0209.
• Campos, A., Ferreira, F., & Guimarães, F. (2012). Cannabidiol blocks long-lasting behavioral consequences of predator threat stress: possible involvement of 5HT1A receptors.. Journal of psychiatric research, 46 11, 1501-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2012.08.012.
• Gutierre, E., Crosignani, N., García-Carnelli, C., Mateo, A., & Recchi, L. (2023). A case report of CBD and THC as analgesic therapy in a cat with chronic osteoarthritic pain. Veterinary Medicine and Science, 9, 1021 – 1025. https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.1057.
• Kim, J., Choi, H., Kang, E., Ji, G., Kim, Y., & Choi, I. (2021). In Vitro Studies on Therapeutic Effects of Cannabidiol in Neural Cells: Neurons, Glia, and Neural Stem Cells. Molecules, 26. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26196077.
• Landsberg, G., Denenberg, S., & Araujo, J. (2010). Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats: A Syndrome We Used to Dismiss as ‘Old Age’. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 12, 837 – 848. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfms.2010.09.004.
• Landsberg, G., Nichol, J., & Araujo, J. (2012). Cognitive dysfunction syndrome: a disease of canine and feline brain aging. The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice, 42 4, 749-68, vii. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2012.04.003.
• MacQuiddy, B., Moreno, J., Frank, J., & McGrath, S. (2022). Survey of risk factors and frequency of clinical signs observed with feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 24, e131 – e137. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X221095680.
• Nidadavolu, P., Bilkei-Gorzo, A., Effah, F., Leidmaa, E., Schürmann, B., Berger, M., Bindila, L., Schmid, M., Lutz, B., Zimmer, A., & Bailey, A. (2022). Dynamic Changes in the Endocannabinoid System during the Aging Process: Focus on the Middle-Age Crisis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231810254.
• Mori, M., Meyer, E., Soares, L., Milani, H., Guimarães, F., & Oliveira, R. (2017). Cannabidiol reduces neuroinflammation and promotes neuroplasticity and functional recovery after brain ischemia. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 75, 94-105. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnpbp.2016.11.005.
• Sordo, L., & Gunn-Moore, D. (2021). Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats: Update on Neuropathological and Behavioural Changes Plus Clinical Management.. The Veterinary record, 188 1, e3 . https://doi.org/10.1002/VETR.3.