A touching TikTok video showing a man comforting his elderly cat with dementia has captured hearts around the world. The clip, shared by Boston resident Julie Nashawaty, shows her husband, Steve Granelli, gently cradling their 18-year-old cat, Luna, as she experiences confusion and distress caused by feline dementia.
The video has been viewed over 1.3 million times, drawing widespread praise for Granelli’s compassion and calm demeanor.
Luna has been diagnosed with feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), often referred to as cat dementia. The condition is similar to Alzheimer’s in humans and causes symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, loud meowing, and disrupted sleep.
Nashawaty, who has worked with South Bay Veterinary Group in Boston for the past six years, said Luna’s signs became more obvious over the past year.
“She’s up most of the night, meowing when she feels lost or when she’s forgotten she’s eaten,” Nashawaty told Newsweek. “She’ll just stare at walls and needs extra reassurance throughout the day.”
Luna’s episodes happen frequently—sometimes multiple times a night and day. “We’re talking 10 a.m., 3 p.m., 9 p.m., 2 a.m., 2:30 a.m., 3 a.m., 4:15 a.m., and 7 a.m. I’m not kidding,” Nashawaty said.
Moved by the bond between her husband and Luna, Nashawaty decided to share the video online. She hoped to not only show Granelli’s gentle nature but also raise awareness about feline dementia.
“I was so grateful to have found a man and a husband who has such a pure, kind, and loving heart,” she said. “Also, to show what cat dementia looks like and that love is always the best cure.”
The post quickly went viral, with thousands of viewers commenting on the emotional clip. Many praised Granelli’s patience and shared their own stories of caring for aging pets.
“She may not remember much, but she damn sure remembers him,” one user wrote. Another added, “I had no idea cats could get dementia—and I’ve had cats all my life.”
Feline CDS is a common condition in senior cats. Studies suggest around 36% of cats aged 11 to 21, and up to 50% of cats over 15, show signs of cognitive decline. While there is no cure, symptoms can be managed through routine, a calm environment, and consistent affection—something Granelli clearly provides.
Experts say that, like Luna, cats with dementia can still live meaningful lives when supported by understanding and love.
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