If your aging dog or cat begins exhibiting odd behaviors, it’s always a good idea to talk to your vet. If physical problems are ruled out, your pet may be developing cognitive dysfunction, similar to dementia in humans. The Meowing Vet provides a quick overview on canine and feline cognitive dysfunction, including its early clinical signs and what therapies to consider for your pet.

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Is your elderly dog or cat not only slowing down physically but mentally as well? If your aging pet is acting more aggressive or agitated (growling, snapping, or biting), has increased anxiety or restlessness, seems depressed and uninterested in activities once enjoyed, barks or meows for no reason, has episodes of forgetfulness and disorientation (becoming lost in the home or yard), starts soiling in the house, or experiences changes in appetite, he or she could have cognitive dysfunction syndrome, similar to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in humans.

The brain is an organ like any other, and it ages too. The majority of cognitive dysfunction cases develop gradually, with various signs of senility worsening with age. Most cases are thought to be caused by a buildup of abnormal protein plaques in the brain that damage nerve synapses and neurons, thus impairing brain activity. Though less common, brain tumors may also be responsible for the observed change in behavior. Cognitive dysfunction can mimic other health disorders, so always consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

While cognitive dysfunction syndrome cannot be cured, it can be treated, with the majority of cases showing varying degrees of cognitive improvement with therapy. Talk with your vet about prescription veterinary diets specially formulated to preserve brain health (like Hill’s Prescription Diet® b/d® and Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets NC NeuroCare™ for dogs), supplements (such as Senilife® by Ceva for dogs and cats), or medications (for instance, selegilene a.k.a. Anipryl®). Furthermore, keeping your dog or cat healthy otherwise by managing concurrent diseases and maintaining a healthy weight will also improve his or her overall well-being. Preventing and treating periodontal disease is also important, as dental disease may possibly increase your dog’s risk of developing cognitive dysfunction as well as increasing the severity of its symptoms. Sticking to a routine, providing regular walks (if physically able) and play activity (with toys and mentally-stimulating games), as well as socializing (spending quality time with your pet) are equally important.

While these therapies should help improve your dog or cat’s brain health and aid in slowing the progression of his or her cognitive dysfunction, sometimes a pet’s quality of life will eventually deteriorate so that euthanasia should be considered. If you’re worried about your senior pet’s overall well-being, please schedule a consult appointment with your vet to discuss your concerns.

– Maranda Elswick, DVM

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This article originally appeared as a post on The Meowing Vet’s Instagram profile, @themeowingvet (June 7, 2017).