As our pets age, they can experience changes in their behavior, activity levels, and mental sharpness. Some of these changes may indicate a condition known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans, CDS involves a progressive decline in cognitive function and can significantly impact a pet’s (and their family’s) quality of life.With early recognition and intervention, we’re better able to extend our senior pet’s time spent enjoying a good quality of life.

cds in dogsWhat is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

CDS is a neurobehavioral disorder seen in aging pets, featuring a decline in mental processes like perception, learning, memory, and awareness, often resulting in problematic behavior changes.

CDS is far more common than many of us realize. Studies have found:

  • Dogs: 28% of dogs aged 11–12 years and 68% of dogs aged 15–16 years are affected.
  • Cats: 28% of cats aged 11–14 years and 50% of cats aged 15 years and older exhibit behavior changes consistent with CDS.

Despite its prevalence, CDS is underdiagnosed because its symptoms are often mistaken for normal aging.

Common Signs of CDS

  • Disorientation: Getting stuck in corners or lost in familiar places, staring into space
  • Changes in Social Interactions: Becoming unusually clingy or avoidant, not recognizing familiar people or pets
  • Sleep-Wake Cycle Changes: Restlessness at night, increased daytime sleeping
  • House-Soiling: Urinating or defecating indoors despite being previously house-trained
  • Activity Level Changes: Pacing or aimless wandering, reduced interest in play or other activities
  • Anxiety and Irritability: Increased fear or new phobias, aggression or irritability
  • Learning and Memory Changes: Forgetting familiar commands or struggling to learn new ones

In cats, common signs include increased vocalization and aimless activity, while in dogs, anxiety and nighttime restlessness are frequently observed. Complete the Canine Dementia Scale Worksheet.

How is CDS Diagnosed?

CDS is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other medical conditions like dental disease, digestive disorders, high blood pressure, kidney dysfunction, arthritis, and vision/hearing loss must be ruled out first. A veterinarian may perform:

  • A thorough history assessment and physical examination
  • Diagnostic tests, often including bloodwork, urinalysis, and blood pressure screening
  • Sometimes advanced diagnostics like endocrine tests or MRI are indicated

Managing CDS: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Although there is no cure for CDS, early intervention can slow its progression and improve your pet’s quality of life. Treatment often involves a combination of the following:

1. Environmental Enrichment

  • Routine: Maintaining a consistent daily schedule reduces anxiety.
  • Mental Stimulation: Engage your pet with training exercises, interactive toys, food puzzles, and increased human interactions.
  • Exercise: Increased daytime physical activity supports both physical and cognitive health.
  • Adjustments for Comfort: Provide easy access to litter boxes or more frequent potty breaks, reduce evening disturbances, and create safe spaces for rest.

2. Nutritional Support

Specialized diets rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) may support brain health by reducing oxidative damage and providing alternative energy sources for brain function. Recommended diets include:

3. Medications and Supplements

  • Selegiline Hydrochloride: FDA-approved for CDS in dogs, this medication improves cognitive function by enhancing dopamine levels and reducing free radicals. This medication has been also used off-label in cats.
  • Nutritional Supplements: Products like Senilife, Novifit, and Denosyl may improve memory, learning, and behavior in pets with CDS.
  • Supportive Medications: Anxiety-reducing medications and anti-depressants are often used to help control symptoms of CDS.

4. Complementary Therapies

Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and anxiety-relief garments (e.g., Thundershirts), can improve comfort and reduce stress.

Regular Veterinary Care

Senior pets benefit from regular checkups to monitor cognitive, physical, and behavioral health. These visits allow your veterinary team to:

  • Adjust treatments as needed
  • Identify and address other health concerns, such as arthritis or sensory decline, that may exacerbate CDS symptoms
  • Provide guidance and support

Supporting Your Senior Pet

CDS is a progressive condition, but with early recognition and a proactive care plan, you can help your pet live a happier, more comfortable life. If you’ve noticed changes in your pet’s behavior, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re here to help you navigate your pet’s golden years with compassion and expertise.

Your senior pet deserves the best care—let us help make their golden years truly golden.

Alison Barulich DVM

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