Understanding Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs and Cats

Behavioral issues in cats and dogs can be distressing for both you and your pet, and leaving them unresolved can ultimately damage your special human-animal bond. Understanding what to look out for (and when to seek support) is crucial to providing proper care for your pet and keeping that bond healthy.

Cognitive dysfunction in dogs and cats is a common yet relatively underdiagnosed condition. It can develop slowly over time, and pet parents can potentially mistake the subtle behavioral changes for what they assume to be natural signs of old age. So how do you know what signs are simply old age and what indicates a deeper problem?

Read on to learn what causes cognitive dysfunction in cats and dogs, how to recognize the signs, and how to work with your veterinarian to ensure your pet gets the care and attention they need to thrive.

What Is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Dogs and Cats?

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is the term used to describe a group of behavioral signs seen in older pets. Similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, this syndrome is caused by age-related changes in the brain. This is why some people refer to CDS in dogs as "doggie dementia."

Various studies on the prevalence of cognitive dysfunction in dogs show that anywhere from 22% to 73% of dogs are affected. In cats, a pet parent survey revealed that 28% of pet cats from 11 to 14 years old showed at least one sign consistent with CDS. This increased to 50% for cats 15 years of age and older.

What Causes Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs and Cats?

Like Alzheimer's disease in humans, cognitive dysfunction syndrome in cats and dogs is a progressive, degenerative brain disease that leads to behavioral changes and cognitive decline. While research tells us that people with Alzheimer's experience physical changes to the brain, such as neurotoxic protein buildup and brain cell degeneration and loss, researchers are still investigating the exact causes of CDS in pets.

It's generally understood that oxidative damage, which is caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body, and decreased blood flow to the brain, which leads to brain cell damage, contribute to cognitive decline in pets.

What Are the Signs of Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs and Cats?

So how do you know if your senior pet has CDS? Pets with this condition may show a range of signs, including memory loss (e.g., getting lost or forgetting house training), reduced spatial awareness (such as getting stuck in corners), changes in sleeping patterns, and decreased sociability.

To support diagnosis and care, veterinary professionals have come up with acronyms for dogs and cats to describe the signs of CDS in both species.

Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs

The acronym for the signs of CDS in dogs is DISHAAL:

• Disorientation
• Changes in interactions with people and other pets
• Changes in sleep
• House soiling
• Changes in activity
• Anxiety
• Changes in learning and memory

Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats

The acronym for the signs of CDS in cats is VISHDAAL:

• Increased vocalization
• Changes in interactions with people and other pets
• Changes in sleep
• House soiling
• Disorientation
• Changes in activity
• Anxiety
• Changes in learning and memory

In addition to these signs, cats may also exhibit decreased grooming behavior, which can lead to a matted, greasy, or unkempt coat.

Cognitive Dysfunction Diagnosis and Management

Many conditions can cause behavioral changes in older dogs and cats, including metabolic disorders, pain, hypertension, sensory deficits, hormonal changes, stress, and other neurological disorders. Cognitive dysfunction is considered a diagnosis of exclusion, which means your vet must rule out all other causes before diagnosing your pet with CDS. To this end, your vet will thoroughly examine your pet and may run various tests to identify other possible causes of your cat or dog's behavioral changes.

As with most conditions, early intervention is key. The sooner CDS is caught and treated, the better your pet's prognosis. If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with cognitive dysfunction, don't panic. Knowing is the first step to providing the proper care. While CDS is progressive, you can work with your vet to slow the disease's progress and improve your pet's overall quality of life.

Activity and Training

Maintaining mental and physical stimulation can help slow the progression of cognitive decline. And yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Engage in as much exercise, play and training as is appropriate for your pet's health. And this doesn't just apply to dogs! Indoor cats of all ages can benefit from environmental enrichment to stimulate their bodies and minds, keep them active, and reduce stress.

Routine

Keeping a regular feeding, playing, and sleeping schedule can prevent confusion and behavioral issues by helping your pet feel secure and stable.

Nutrition

Feeding your pet a complete and balanced food for their life stage and unique needs is a cornerstone of health and well-being. Certain nutrients can also help support your pet's brain health.

Antioxidants—including vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and carotenoids and flavonoids from fruits and vegetables—help reduce free radical damage that can lead to oxidative stress, a potentially significant contributor to cognitive decline. L-carnitine can help support mitochondrial function (the powerhouse of the cell!), while omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support cell membrane health.

Supplements

Your vet may recommend offering your dog or cat a supplement designed to promote brain health.

Supporting Your Pet in Every Stage of Life

The earlier your vet can identify CDS, the better you can care for your pet — another reason to maintain regular veterinary exams and wellness care. If your pet is showing signs of cognitive decline, consult with your vet as soon as possible.

By working together to identify the right combination of treatment modalities, you can help reduce the signs of cognitive dysfunction in cats and dogs and slow the disease's progression. When it comes down to it, the magic recipe for helping your pet age gracefully is your continued attention, love, and support.