Cognitive dysfunction syndrome
Dogs and cats with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) can be compared to humans who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. There are a number of other medical conditions that can cause similar clinical signs. Pets with CDS may benefit from medications. Dogs with CDS can be managed with a special diet, and nutritional supplements may also be helpful.
What is cognitive dysfunction syndrome?
In older dogs and cats, the condition is very similar to Alzheimer’s disease or senility in humans. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is the name given to this condition.
The causes of CDS in pets are still unknown, but studies have found that beta-amyloid deposits play a role in the changes that occur in their brains. The presence of these deposits adversely affects brain function.
Dogs and cats are more likely to develop CDS as they age, but its exact prevalence is not well documented. One study found that 47% of 11-12-year-old dogs and 86% of 15-16-year-old dogs had CDS.
What are the signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome?
Clinical signs of CDS can be subtle and hard to distinguish from those of normal aging. Among them are things like slowing down and becoming less active. In addition, CDS can cause other signs, such as:
- House soiling (“forgetting” how to use the litter tray or eliminating outside the tray for cats)
- Decreased activity and attention
- Disorientation
- Changes in sleep cycles (pacing or wandering and crying at night)
- Withdrawing from interactions with family members
Occasionally, pets act aggressively toward other pets or members of the household, as if they were strangers. It is also common for pet owners to report that their pets have “forgotten” tricks, behaviours, and routines that they were well accustomed to earlier in life.
How will do I diagnose cognitive dysfunction syndrome?
You should begin by reviewing the medical history the pet. An important piece of information is how long the abnormalities have been present, how severe they are, and whether they are getting worse over time.
Among the most important aspects of diagnosing CDS is excluding other medical problems that can present similar signs. In the case of an elderly cat that is soiling outside the litter tray, he or she may be suffering from another illness such as a bladder infection, diabetes, thyroid disease, or kidney problems. In the same way, a cat with arthritis may have difficulty getting into and out of the litter tray, making it difficult for them to use it. Senior pets can also begin to lose their vision and hearing, which may affect how they interact and respond to family members.
There are several preliminary tests that may be sensible to consider:
- An examination of the blood, including a chemistry panel and a complete blood cell count
- Evaluation of kidney function and evidence of kidney or bladder infection by urine testing and urine culture
- Abdominal and chest radiography
- Ultrasound imaging of the abdomen
- Tests to evaluate thyroid function and look for other medical conditions
How is cognitive dysfunction syndrome treated?
CDS cannot be cured, but treatment may improve its signs and slow its progression. There are medications that can help dogs with CDS depending on the severity of the clinical signs, but there is no licensed medication for cats with the condition at this time. Dogs with CDS may benefit from a special diet, while nutritional supplements may also help.
There is no single medication that can treat all pets with CDS. Exercise and mental stimulation, however, have been shown to slow the progression of CDS. In addition to regular exercise, environmental enrichment with toys and play activities can help keep older pets more alert.
When problems like house soiling, aggression, and poor quality of life become intolerable, euthanasia may be a reasonable option.