Mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) develop cognitive deficit and anxiety-like behavior. Expression of IL-1β is increased in the hippocampus and amygdala of HFD mice. Cognitive deficit correlates with levels of IL-1β in the hippocampus and amygdala Levels of IL-1β in the amygdala correlates with anxiety-like behavior Excessive weight gain is not necessary metabolic and behavioral changes to occur.