Dogs and cats are living longer than ever now thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, science, and nutrition. Most pet owners these days can expect to spend at least 10 to 15 years, and up to 20 years in some cases, with their pets by their side, with the exception of giant-breed dogs. One area where science is still lacking, however, is in understanding the aging brain and why some pets and people develop dementia and others don’t. We do know that pets older than age 10 can show signs of cognitive decline, and by 16, nearly all of them have at least one sign. 

The Driftwood Animal Hospital team understands how difficult it can be to watch your once-vibrant pet lose their zest for life, but you don’t have to sit back and watch helplessly. With the proper diagnosis and care, you can help manage your furry pal’s brain changes and boost their quality of life for as long as possible. Here is our guide to understanding cognitive dysfunction in pets.

What causes pet cognitive dysfunction?

The causes for cognitive dysfunction aren’t entirely clear in people or in animals. Because of the similarities between pets and people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, we can assume that a buildup in the brain tissue of abnormal proteins called beta-amyloid plays a role. Another cause could be the destruction of certain neurotransmitters responsible for maintaining normal brain functions because of an excessively high level of an enzyme called monoamine oxidase. What causes these substances to build up in the brain is unknown, but pets with other neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, and those who live a sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk.

What are some cognitive dysfunction signs in dogs and cats?

Signs of cognitive dysfunction in dogs and cats could include any of the following:

  • Confusion — starting, pacing, getting stuck in corners
  • Inability to recognize familiar people
  • Forgetting house rules
  • Accidents in the house or outside the litter box
  • Restlessness or anxiety
  • Altered sleep-wake cycles
  • Vocalization, especially at night
  • Altered interest in eating

How is pet cognitive dysfunction diagnosed?

Most cognitive dysfunction signs overlap with other diseases and disorders that must be ruled out before pursuing a diagnosis. For example, urinating in the house could be caused by arthritis pain or disorders that increase urine output, and anxiety could be attributed to numerous behavioral or medical issues. Our veterinary team may order blood tests, a urinalysis, and basic imaging tests to check for underlying diseases. An MRI or referral to a veterinary neurologist can be helpful to rule out other problems inside the brain, including tumors or inflammation. 

Is pet cognitive dysfunction treatable?

Unfortunately, cognitive dysfunction is usually progressive, and treatments can’t restore completely normal brain function. They potentially can slow down the progression, keep the brain optimally functional for as long as possible, and alleviate the most troublesome symptoms, including anxiety. Eventually, quality of life could decline to an unacceptable level, but the time frame for that to occur is different for each pet. 

Treatments may include the following:

  • A therapeutic diet rich in antioxidants, which help to slow down aging
  • Supplemental antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids
  • Anti-anxiety medications
  • Selegeline — an antidepressant known to help improve cognition
  • Keeping a strictly consistent daily routine
  • Setting aside time daily for stimulating exercise, training, or play
  • Melatonin to encourage normal sleep and reduce anxiety

What can I do for my cognitively impaired pet at home?

Many pets with cognitive impairment need help to learn to navigate their home in new ways. Nightlights, easily accessible and soft bedding, and being confined to a single floor or smaller house area can reduce the chance of pets getting lost or stuck. Low-sided, easily accessible litter boxes and potty pads in strategic locations may help pets struggling with their potty training. Keeping a consistent daily routine and bedtime will encourage a normal sleep-wake cycle, and daily exercise is known to boost brain function and keep pets stimulated.

Pets stand by our sides and remain loyal and loving throughout their lives. Supporting them as they age is important to maintain the human-pet bond and to keep them happy and healthy as long as possible. Regular preventive care visits with our Driftwood Animal Hospital team can help detect early dementia signs and prevent or treat contributing chronic diseases. Our team also can create a treatment plan for impaired pets and help you adjust your home to accommodate their changing needs. Contact us to schedule a visit or with questions about your aging pet’s physical or brain health.