Cognitive dysfunction is a syndrome that can be seen in
elderly pets. It is an aging change that occurs in the brain and typically
manifests as behavioral changes. The exact cause in most cases is unclear but
seems to be associated with advancing age. At first symptoms can be subtle but
many times will continue to progress.
There are several sets of signs that are consistently found
in pets with cognitive dysfunction. Patients may forget their house training
when they used to never have accidents. They may change their sleeping patterns
and be awake for most of the night where they used to sleep soundly. Many will
seem confused about common routines such as where the door swings open or even
where the food bowl or litter boxes are located. They may start to neglect
their grooming regimen when they used to be overly fastidious. This is more
commonly seen in elderly cats, but may be noted in dogs as well. Pets may also
change how they interact with the other animals or people in the house. It is
possible to see them off on their own more if they used to be quiet social or
maybe they are coming out more if they used to be prone to hiding. One or all of
these changes could indicate the beginning of cognitive dysfunction.
Mentioning these changes is very important at any veterinary
visit. Other medical causes such as underlying kidney or liver disease need to
be ruled out first. Your veterinarian may recommend a full work up (including
blood work and x-rays) prior to making a diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction.
While there is no treatment that will reverse the changes,
there have been some supplements that may be recommended to help preserve the
function that is there. There are also medications that can help reset the
sleep/wake cycle if your pet is having trouble sleeping at night. None of these
have been proven to work in every patient but they may help. It is also
important for owners to continue to engage the pet’s mind and body. Encouraging
play and exercise whenever possible can help strengthen their muscles and mind.
There are also special diets that have been made in order to help prevent age
related changes in the brain of pets. Working with your veterinarian will help
determine which route is best for you and your pet. For more information about
Cognitive dysfunction you can visit
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