Older Cat Howling

QUESTION

We have an 18yr old female cat. She eats ok and even plays sometimes and sleeps quite often but throughout the day and the nightime is worse she wanders around howling. This is not your typical cat meow, it is just plain strange and very loud. Does she have kitty dimensia. We never have a good nights rests due to this distressing sound she makes. Once she is aware of us she stops and looks confused. HELP




Hi,

That type of vocalization in an older cat is usually from loss of hearing or hyperthyroidism or yes, occasionally dementia. She needs a vet visit to rule out medical causes that may be treatable. Leaving a light on at night often helps with this behavior as well.

Thank you for writing,
Dr. Neely