Behaviour and sleep
Behaviour, sleep and cognitive changes in older cats
A change in behaviour is information, not a diagnosis. Pain, medical disease, sensory change and cognitive dysfunction can overlap, so persistent changes deserve veterinary assessment.
Changes to notice
Night-time waking or vocalising
An older cat may begin waking, wandering or vocalising at different times. Pain, sensory changes, medical disease, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction are among the possibilities, so the pattern should be assessed rather than labelled from behaviour alone.
Disorientation or getting 'stuck'
Staring, appearing confused in familiar areas or having difficulty navigating can be important changes. Vision, hearing, neurological and cognitive causes may need to be considered.
Withdrawal or changed social behaviour
A cat that becomes unusually withdrawn, irritable or clingy may be responding to discomfort, reduced sensory ability, stress or illness. Behaviour is often one of the first places a caregiver notices that something has changed.
New toileting mistakes
House-soiling can occur with reduced mobility, urinary or gastrointestinal problems, litter-box access difficulty or cognitive change. It should not be treated as deliberate misbehaviour.
Keep the environment predictable while you investigate
Consistent routines, accessible resources and gentle night lighting can make the home easier to navigate. These adjustments can support comfort, but they should not replace assessment of a new or progressive behaviour change.