Age-related cognitive impairments in domestic cats naturally infected with feline immunodeficiency virus

Background: Age-related dementia has been documented in domestic cats; however, its interaction with naturally occurring feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection has been investigated minimally. Methods: Visuospatial working memory (VSWM) and problem-solving (PS) ability were evaluated in FIV-infected (n = 37) and control cats (n = 39) using two cognitive tasks tested serially, which assessed the ability of cats to remember the location of a baited container after a set delay, then evaluated the capability of the cats to manipulate the container to obtain the food within a time limit. Cats were categorized using 7 years of age as a cut-off to determine age-related differences. The relationship between cognitive performance and FIV viral load was investigated using real-time PCR cycle threshold (C-t) values. Results: Age significantly affectedVSWMand PS ability. Younger cats had better VSWM performance and PS ability compared to older cats with the same FIV status. There was no difference between younger FIV-positive and negative cats in either part of the task. While older FIV-positive cats had significantly worse VSWM than older FIV-negative cats, no differences were found in PS ability. Additionally, C-t values predicted VSWM but not PS ability. Conclusion: Age-related cognitive impairments and FIV infection appear synergetic, causing greater cognitive deficits in older FIV-infected cats.

Automated summary

This study found that age and FIV infection have significant impacts on cognitive abilities in cats. Younger cats have better visuospatial working memory and problem-solving abilities, with FIV infection having minimal effects. However, older FIV-positive cats exhibit worse visuospatial working memory but no differences in problem-solving abilities.