Retardation in Cats

Cats have been loved as pets for centuries. Most cats have distinct personalities, can take care of themselves and make great companions. Mental retardation in cats is something that occurs from time to time, however. When it does, it is important to know the causes and the symptoms, as well as what can be done for the cat.

Causes

Most mental retardation in cats is caused by inbreeding. Cats sometimes can mate with other cats that are closely related to them, usually without any problems. If several generations of cats have mated with cats that are closely related, however, then mental retardation can occur. Retardation in cats also can occur if a newborn kitten is deprived of oxygen, or a cat of any age sustains a traumatic head injury.

Identification

Mental retardation in cats is not always easy to identify because some felines naturally have wild and crazy personalities. There are several indications of mental retardation in cats. If a cat is unable to walk in a straight line, or his limbs don't work in accord with each other, he may be mentally retarded. Also, if a cat does not use a litter box, or regularly goes to the bathroom in his food, he could be mentally retarded.

Misconceptions

Many behavioral problems, even those that are indications of mental retardation, actually could be the result of an injury or an illness. For instance, a scat may defecate near its food bowl because it's sick, not mentally retarded. Retardation in cats is actually quite rare, and it's best to have your veterinarian confirm your cat's condition.

Treatment

There is no cure for mental retardation in cats. If your cat is inbred or has been injured and is mentally retarded, you basically have three choices. You can allow the cat to live out the natural course of its life, assuming she is not in pain; you can give the cat to a rescue organization that will try to find her a home; or you can find a vet who will euthanize her.

A Happy Home

If you decide to keep a cat who is mentally retarded and let it live out his life, keep in mind that you may have make changes in your home to accommodate him if he has motor problems. This could include putting out more than one litter box, or making the little box available in an area where he does not have to go up and down stairs.