BigStock Images It is a gift cats are living longer than ever. However, with that gift of longevity comes a new challenge many veterinarians and pet parents are only beginning to confront: age-related cognitive decline. Cognitive function, which refers to how a cat takes in, processes and responds to information, is vital to a cat’s emotional and physical well-being and its quality of life.1,2 Unfortunately, mental cognition remains an area of feline health often overlooked and understudied in veterinary medicine. This disconnect is striking. In a recent consumer survey, more than 84 percent of cat owners said their cat’s cognitive function is a high or somewhat important priority (Figure 1).3 Yet, only 38 percent reported discussing their cat’s mental health with their veterinarian.3 A separate 2024 survey found 90.1 percent of owners have not discussed strategies to support their cat’s brain health with their veterinarian.4 Figure 1. An October 2023 survey of 137 cat owners revealed that 84.6 percent viewedcognition as either a high priority or somewhat important component of theircat’s overall health.3 As a nutrition scientist who studies feline cognition, I believe there is tremendous opportunity for the veterinary community to elevate cognitive care for aging cats. By understanding how cognitive dysfunction presents and how nutrition can help support brain health as a part of a multimodal management plan, we can more effectively identify early changes, guide pet owners, and improve the quality of life for senior cats. Understanding feline cognition and cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) Feline cognition encompasses the sophisticated mental processes cats rely on to navigate their environments: memory, sensory interpretation, problem-solving, decision-making, and social interaction. Feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is an age-related neurodegenerative condition characterized by behavioral changes that cannot be attributed to another medical problem.5-7 Similar to dementia in humans, CDS reflects an ongoing decline in cognitive function that disrupts a cat’s daily life. These signs typically emerge slowly and subtly. A cat may begin pacing at night, seem confused in familiar rooms, or become either unusually clingy or unusually withdrawn. Pet parents may view these behaviors as inevitable aging. Veterinarians may attribute them to comorbidities, like osteoarthritis, hyperthyroidism, or sensory decline. Since CDS is a diagnosis of exclusion, pinpointing the underlying cause of these behaviors can be challenging. To help veterinarians and owners identify potential signs, Prof. Danielle Gunn-Moore and Dr. Lorena Sordo developed the acronym VISHDAAL8 (Figure 2), describing eight core behavioral changes associated with CDS. Figure 2 Letter Behavior V Increased Vocalization, especially at night I Altered Interactions with members of the household S Changes in Sleep/wake patterns H House-soiling D Disorientation A Altered Activity levels A Anxiety L Learning and memory deficits Yet, despite these barriers, the data are clear: up to 28 percent of cats aged 11–14, and 50 percent of cats 15 and older, show at least one sign of CDS.6 Early detection is essential because while CDS cannot be cured, multimodal management, including targeted nutritional support, can help slow progression and improve quality of life.8,9-13 Why veterinary teams should lead the conversation Despite growing awareness, cognitive assessments remain inconsistent in veterinary practice. A 2024 survey of 320 veterinary professionals revealed that, although many assess cognitive function annually, routine evaluation is not yet a standard practice.14 Given the prevalence of cognitive decline and its profound effect on the pet-owner bond, it is essential for veterinary teams to: Initiate proactive conversations about cognitive health early Incorporate behavior screening tools into wellness exams Educate owners on CDS, what to watch for and why early intervention matters Present nutrition as an evidence-based, accessible support tool Reinforce that CDS is a medical condition, not something owners should ignore or feel guilty about These steps can make the difference between years of confusion and distress and years of comfort and connection. Why early detection matters Behavioral changes related to CDS can easily be overshadowed by physical concerns during a typical veterinary visit. Time constraints, diagnostic uncertainty, and the gradual nature of CDS all contribute to underdiagnosis. Identifying early cognitive decline is one of the most powerful steps veterinary teams can take to support senior cats. Recognizing what “normal” looks like for an individual cat is key. Each feline patient has a unique personality baseline; behavioral changes that indicate cognitive decline in one cat may look completely different in another. That variability is part of what makes CDS so difficult to diagnose and so important to understand. Encouraging owners to complete brief behavioral questionnaires before appointments can streamline assessment and open the door to meaningful conversations. These proactive discussions not only help detect early signs of CDS but also normalize cognitive health as a routine part of a cat’s senior wellness checks. The role of nutrition in supporting cognitive health Nutrition plays a critical role in supporting brain health throughout a cat’s lifespan, and it becomes even more important as cats age. While no controlled, prospective study has yet evaluated dietary intervention specifically in cats diagnosed with CDS, extensive research from multiple species highlights the powerful connection between nutrition, oxidative stress, and cognitive function. Two primary nutritional targets, antioxidants and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), have shown promise in supporting brain health. Antioxidants: Protecting the aging brain Free radicals are naturally occurring molecules in the body that, when present in excess, can damage cells, including neurons. Over time, this oxidative stress can accelerate aging and impair cognitive function. The brain is particularly vulnerable due to its high fat content and oxygen demand. Antioxidants, which include vitamins E, C, and beta-carotene, neutralize free radicals and help protect brain cells from oxidative damage. Research in senior beagles15-18 and other mammals have demonstrated antioxidant-rich diets can: Improve performance on memory and learning tasks Reduce oxidative damage Support overall cognitive resilience While feline-specific CDS trials are still needed, the biochemical basis for antioxidant support is strong. Providing dietary antioxidants may help slow neurodegeneration and support senior cats showing early behavioral changes consistent with CDS. Omega-3 fatty acids: Supporting neurons and reducing inflammation Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and other marine sources, are integral components of neuronal cell membranes.13,19-21 They support: Membrane fluidity, essential for proper neurotransmission Phosphatidylserine production, a lipid crucial for nerve function Anti-inflammatory processes, counteracting chronic inflammation commonly seen in aging cats Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a driver of cognitive decline in humans and animals. Recent feline studies have found elevated inflammatory cytokines in cats exhibiting cognitive impairment, highlighting a potential link between inflammation and aging-related cognitive changes.22-26 By supporting neuronal integrity and modulating inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids offer a compelling nutritional avenue for supporting the aging feline brain. Nutrition as a tool within a multimodal care plan Nutrition alone cannot manage all aspects of CDS, but it plays a uniquely powerful role because cats must eat every day. Providing cognitive support through a cat’s daily food ensures consistent delivery of key nutrients without relying on separate supplements or medications, which can be difficult for pet parents to administer and potentially cause additional stress for the pet. Research and clinical observations show that a multimodal approach is recommended for cats with CDS.8,9-13 This might include elements, such as: Environmental enrichment. Puzzle feeders, climbing structures, interactive play, and safe exploration can help stimulate cognitive pathways.8,9 Environmental modification. Nightlights, additional resting areas, ramps, or pheromone diffusers can ease anxiety and confusion. Medical management. While no medications are currently licensed for feline CDS, veterinarians may prescribe off-label treatments for anxiety or sleep disturbances when appropriate. Owner education and behavioral monitoring. Early detection and ongoing observation are essential components of long-term management. The goal is not to “cure” CDS, but to preserve quality of life, support emotional well-being, and maintain meaningful interactions between cats and their families. Nutrient synergy: Moving beyond single-ingredient solutions While individual nutrients, such as antioxidants and omega-3s, are valuable, evidence suggests nutrient synergy, which is the combined impact of multiple nutrients working together, may be even more effective in supporting cognitive function. Several studies illustrate the power of comprehensive nutritional strategies: Cognitive Enhancement in Middle-Aged and Old Cats with Dietary Supplementation with a Nutrient Blend Containing Fish Oil, B Vitamins, Antioxidants and Arginine (Pan Y, Araujo JA, Burrows J, et al.) A food supplemented with antioxidants, arginine, B vitamins and fish oil improved performance across multiple cognitive tasks in cats aged 5.5–8.7 years. These findings highlight the potential for nutrition to support brain function before cognitive decline becomes apparent.27 Behavior and Health in Aged Cats Fed a Food with Antioxidants, Phytonutrients and Fatty Acids (Shiefelbein et al.) Cats aged nine and older who consumed a food enriched with antioxidants, fatty acids carnitine and phytonutrients showed: Improved vitality Increased social interaction Enhanced ability to run, jump and play28 Please note these improvements (in the Shiefelbein et al. study) were observed compared to baseline and a nonstandardized control group. A follow-up study revealed 79 percent of owners observed improvement in at least one age-related behavior, including those described by VISHDAAL, after just 30 days.29 Together, these studies underscore that targeted nutritional plans may offer the greatest benefit for aging cats. Final thoughts: A call to prioritize the aging feline mind Cognitive dysfunction is one of the most impactful yet underrecognized conditions affecting senior cats. With earlier detection, better owner education, and greater clinical emphasis, veterinary teams can help ensure aging cats receive the compassionate, comprehensive care they deserve. Nutrition is one of the most accessible and research-backed tools we have to support cognitive health. By integrating targeted nutritional strategies into multimodal care plans, veterinarians can help slow cognitive decline, preserve emotional well-being, and strengthen the bond between cats and the people who love them. As our understanding of feline cognition deepens, so too does our responsibility: to recognize behavioral change as a medical concern, to guide owners with empathy and clarity, and to elevate the standard of care for aging cats everywhere. Where research is heading next The future of feline cognitive health is expanding rapidly. Key areas of emerging interest include: Studying nutrition in cats diagnosed with CDS. Controlled trials in cats with confirmed CDS are needed to better understand how nutritional strategies influence disease progression. Understanding neurological mechanisms. More research is required to identify biomarkers, risk factors, and the underlying neurobiology of CDS. Exploring the gut–brain axis. The connection between the microbiome and cognitive behavior is a promising frontier. As we learn more about how gut health influences stress, mood, and cognition, new dietary possibilities may emerge. Developing better clinical tools. Shorter, more practical screening instruments could make cognitive assessment easier to incorporate into routine care. Across all areas, cross-disciplinary collaboration will be essential. A collaboration between Hill’s Pet Nurtition and Oregon State University’s Human–Animal Interaction Lab aims to advance understanding of cognition in aging cats and how nutrition may help support behavioral and cognitive outcomes. Allison McGrath, MS, is a scientist in Global Clinical Nutrition and Claims at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Her research focuses on feline cognition, cognitive aging, and the nutritional science supporting brain health in companion animals. McGrath collaborates with academic partners to advance understanding of feline cognitive decline and the role of nutrient synergy in supporting senior cats. McGrath holds a Master of Science in Agricultural Production and can be reached at allison_mcgrath@hillspet.com. References Vitale Shreve KR, Udell MA. What’s inside your cat’s head? A review of cat (Felis silvestris catus) cognitive research past, present and future. Animal Cognition;18: 1195-1206. 2015. Shettleworth SJ. Animal cognition and animal behavior. Animal Behavior. 61(2):277-286. 2001. McGrath AP, Amundson MD. Unpublished raw data on consumer market research on cat cognition. 2023. McGrath AP, Amundson MD. Unpublished raw data on consumer market research for dog and cat cognitive dysfunction and decline. 2024. Cerna P, Gardiner H, Sordo L, Tornqvist-Johnsen C, Gunn-Moore DA. 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