A senior cat with suspected dementia has captured hearts online after repeatedly showing up at his former neighbor’s doorstep—seemingly forgetting where he now lives.
The heartwarming story was shared on Reddit earlier in February by user u/Apprehensive-Wave309, who posted a photo of the confused tabby cat standing outside their door. The caption read: “Neighbor’s cat has Alzheimer’s, forgets that he doesn’t live here.”
Lou Kägi, the original poster, told Newsweek that the cat, named Maolo, often visits in the afternoons when his current owners let him outside for some fresh air.
“Many times when I see him walking around, he ends up at my place,” Kägi said. “It’s likely because he used to live here before his family moved, and now, with his apparent dementia, he seems to think this is still home.”
Kägi added that Maolo often forgets he’s already been fed and asks for food again. “This supports the idea that he may be suffering from feline dementia,” they said. Kägi, who owns two younger cats named Mocca and Cosmo, joked that even they act like Maolo sometimes, asking for treats after meals.
Feline dementia, also known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome, is more common than many realize. According to PetMD, more than 25% of cats aged 11 to 14 show at least one symptom, and nearly 50% of cats over 15 show signs of cognitive decline.
Common symptoms include wandering aimlessly, confusion in familiar places, difficulty finding food or litter boxes, and altered sleep patterns. Cats may also meow at unusual times, fail to recognize family members, or seem less interested in play and affection.
Maolo’s story quickly went viral, earning over 87,000 upvotes and 1,100 comments on Reddit. One commenter, Shadow-foxe, wrote: “Awww poor thing. Might want to just lead him back home then.” Another, CatMoonTrade, encouraged: “Let him in and give food, pets, and snacks.”
Others found humor in Maolo’s preference. “He knows exactly where he lives, he’d just rather chill at your place,” joked user Uursaminorr.
Despite his confusion, Maolo has found a warm welcome—and perhaps some extra treats—at his old home, where his visits bring joy to the neighborhood and now, to thousands online.
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