Aging is a natural part of life, and like humans, pets can experience a cognitive function decline as they grow older. While you may feel overwhelmed if your pet is suffering from cognitive difficulties, you can provide them with the care and support they need once you understand this condition and learn to recognize early signs. Our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Nasa team explains the common cognitive condition that affects roughly 40% of dogs and cats older than 12 years of age, so you can better support your aging pet. 

What is cognitive dysfunction syndrome in pets?

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) in senior pets is similar to Alzheimer’s in people. This condition decreases a pet’s cognitive abilities, leading to changes in behavior, memory, learning, and awareness. An older pet naturally slows down and shows aging signs. However, CDS involves specific behavioral changes that go beyond normal aging signs. As a pet grows old, beta-amyloid protein, a substance that is toxic to the brain, can accumulate. This buildup, in addition to other changes, including reduced cerebral blood flow and dysfunctional neurons, causes the brain to degenerate, which results in CDS. Cognitive dysfunction is most common in dogs who are 11 to 16 years of age, but older cats may also experience these changes.

What are cognitive dysfunction syndrome signs in pets?

You may feel overwhelmed if your pet becomes confused and anxious, but recognizing cognitive dysfunction signs and beginning treatment as quickly as possible are essential for slowing the decline of your pet’s cognitive issues. While cognitive changes can vary greatly depending on the condition’s severity, common CDS signs include:

  • Confusion or disorientation — A pet with cognitive impairment may have difficulty learning a new task, and may appear confused or unsure and take longer to remember a learned task. An affected pet may forget where their food bowl is, or how to find the door, and they may become lost in a familiar environment or fail to recognize a known family member or pet. 
  • Social changes Some changes in your senior pet’s social interactions can be attributed to normal aging. However, when changes are accompanied by increased aggression or irritability, or decreased affection or responsiveness to family members and other pets in general, they could indicate that your pet has cognitive dysfunction. 
  • Changes in sleep and wake cycles — Changes in sleeping patterns, such as sleeping more during the day, or sleeping less at night, commonly occur with cognitive impairment. Other signs include nighttime vocalizing, restlessness, or wandering.
  • Elimination habit changesAbnormal elimination could indicate that your pet has confusion consistent with cognitive dysfunction, or such a sign may indicate another underlying health problem. If your previously house-trained pet has been eliminating in inappropriate places in the house or other strange places, schedule an appointment with our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Nasa team to determine the cause. 

How is cognitive dysfunction diagnosed in pets?

A specific CDS test does not exist, and a diagnosis involves observing indicative signs and ruling out other issues that could cause the changes. Depending on your pet’s signs, our veterinary team may perform the following diagnostic tests:

  • Routine blood work
  • Thyroid testing
  • Urinalysis
  • X-rays
  • Ultrasound
  • Advanced imaging (i.e., magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], computed tomography [CT])

How is cognitive dysfunction treated in pets?

While no CDS cure exists, the condition can be managed to help slow progression. Management techniques include:

  • Medication — Certain medications have been shown to help manage CDS. Our veterinary professionals will tailor a specific plan for your pet.
  • Nutrition — A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids can be helpful. Supplementing medium-chain triglycerides may also be recommended.
  • Cognitive enrichment — Activities designed to stimulate your pet mentally, such as solving food puzzles, playing with new toys, and learning new tricks, can help keep their mind sharp.
  • Exercise — Pets need exercise to improve their brain health and mental wellbeing. Activity increases blood flow, sending more oxygen to the brain. Keep your pet’s exercise intensity at a level appropriate for their condition.
  • Environmental modifications — By making modifications to your home, you can help your senior pet feel comfortable and confident. These changes could include adding rugs or mats to prevent slips on hard surfaces, placing more litter boxes around the home, or installing ramps to enable your pet to reach a spot on the sofa or another home level. 
  • Calming aids — You can use calming pheromones, available as a plug-in diffuser, spray, or saturated collar, to help ease your pet’s anxiety. A white noise machine may help calm a pet who is anxious at night.

Your pet’s needs change as they age. To help ensure your pet gets the support and care they deserve as soon as possible, you must learn to recognize CDS signs. Remember, a senior pet should have a veterinary examination twice a year, so schedule an appointment with our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Nasa team.