If your aging cat has forgotten his litter box manners, gets disoriented or is otherwise acting oddly, he may have feline cognitive dysfunction, or FCD. This syndrome, which affects many elderly cats, involves a decline in memory, awareness and perceptions such as sight and hearing.

Some cats with FCD may be disoriented or lethargic. Their sleep patterns might change, and they can forget familiar things, such as the location of their food bowls. Other cats may become anxious or aggressive. Even a cat’s relationship with other family members, animal or human, may change.

If you notice your cat behaving oddly, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out medical causes first. Your veterinarian can also tell you more about feline cognitive dysfunction and advise you on how to make your cat comfortable during his or her golden years.