Title: Older Cats with Behavior Problems | ASPCA
Headings: Older Cats with Behavior Problems
Older Cats with Behavior Problems
The Effects of Aging
Cognitive Dysfunction Checklist
Ruling Out Other Causes for Your Cat’s Behavior
Treating Cognitive Dysfunction
House Soiling
Confusion and Disorientation
Restlessness and Waking at Night
Excessive Vocalization
Help the ASPCA Put a Stop to Animal Cruelty

Content: However, as with most symptoms of FCD, there are also many alternative reasons for increased nighttime activity. For instance, cats who sleep more during the day can become more restless and active at night. Sensory changes, such as eyesight or hearing loss, can affect your cat’s depth of sleep. An increased need to eliminate combined with a decreased ability to locate or access a litter box can prompt your cat to wake up and wander around. Ask your cat’s veterinarian to do a complete examination to identify medical problems that could cause restlessness, discomfort or an increased need to eliminate. At the same time, try to reestablish your cat’s normal sleeping and waking hours. It’s best to increase her activity level by engaging her in play during the day and in the evening so she’ll want to sleep at night. Anxiety can also cause increased restlessness at night. A distinct feature of geriatric anxiety is that it can manifest as nighttime anxiety. It may be anxiety about being separated from family members (who are asleep) or worry about navigating the house in the dark.