Old cat gone weird

[feekerry]

So my lovely old cat has become very odd recently. She has her bed which she has had for years, in the same place etc. Over the last week she refuses to sleep on it. She has become really clingy. She either wants to sleep on our laps constantly, or right up against us or the seat we are sitting in. Also constantly on our bed. Woke up the other night with her on my pillow!
I have also caught her in random places like in the washing basket or in cupboards.
I cannot think of anything that has happened to her bed that means she won't go near it. I bought a new bed but she still insists on the above.
She is a old, smelly and a bit scabby but much loved. Dp thinks she is looking for a comfortable place to die
What do you think?

How old? Like dementia old? Worth a vet check? Old girl had thyroid issues and arthritis.

15 so not stupidly old but a very very hard life as a baby, rescued as a 4 week old by me, hand reared then serious infection after infection resulting in vets bills in excess of 1k so extremely surprised she made it past 12 months
She has had no medical issues since 8 months but is now quite decrepit.
She isn't offended by her bed, not spooked by it but constantly getting on our laps. Padding and purring very loudly.
No toilet issues or accidents etc. Can still jump up etc. I don't mind taking her to vets but just wondering if nature starting to take its course

My old girl went from anti-social Demon cat to what you describe at about 17. She made it to 20, but it was a gradual decline from that point on. A friend's vicious toddler helped her on her way by attacking, however, uncontrolled child aside, she was very frail at that point. 15 is a decent age, but yes, I think it could be a case of dementia or just old age infirmity setting in. Take her for a check up and get a vet's opinion, I'm no expert. Hopefully one of the vets on here will give better advice.

Our old boy is 17 and the past year is very clingy has to sit on or snuggled up to us, can't jump high anymore, has a cyst on his leg that may well outlive him and dodgy kidneys he's on special food for.

Sounds like she's seeking reassurance from you. Her senses not as acute as they were, and feels safe close to you and dp.

Also could have survived a small stroke?

Could it be that her eyesight is failing? That's what happened when I found older cats in 'odd' places around the house if you see what I mean eg facing the wrong way round towards the wall.
Mind you I do find cats like to have a selection of comfy sleeping spots. But any noticeable change in behaviour no matter how harmless it may seem is worth a quick check up at vets as they are so good at concealing when something is wrong. Hope all is ok!

I agree with wolfiefan, my neighbours cat has dementia and does exactly this. And miaows very very loudly.