Just like us, dogs can begin to experience cognitive changes as they get older. Some dogs may experience canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) as they age, which is similar to Alzheimer’s or dementia in humans.
What are the signs of CCDS?
Dogs experiencing CCDS may display increased levels of anxiety or restlessness. Dogs who used to be content spending time alone may struggle with separation anxiety and want to be around their family more. You might notice your pet pacing around the house more, especially at night, or frequently changing rooms or positions.
One of the most disruptive symptoms of CCDS is nighttime waking, as these changes in sleep patterns can be disruptive to the whole family. As the name implies, nighttime waking is related to a disruption of your pet’s sleep, which may cause them to get up multiple times throughout the night to pace or ask to go outside. Due to CCDS causing some disorientation or confusion, some pets may begin having accidents inside the house.
Additionally, another possible symptom of CCDS is irritability. Pets may become snappier than they once were, whether it’s with you or other pets. They may have less patience or tolerance for certain activities, so it’s important to make note and keep track of possible new triggers.
Ruling out other causes
CCDS is a diagnosis your veterinarian can provide based on a physical exam and medical history, but it’s important to rule out any possible medical reasons for these changes. For example, if your pet has started having accidents in the house, this could be related to urinary or gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, symptoms such as increased anxiety (panting, pacing, etc.) or waking in the night could also be related to pain or other discomfort, so it’s important to speak with your veterinarian about all of your pet’s symptoms to get to the root of the issue.
Treatment for CCDS
While CCDS cannot be cured, the symptoms can often be managed at home with medications and lifestyle habits or changes. Depending on your pet’s needs, medications can be prescribed to assist with anxiety, pain, or sleep. Please consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any medication, even if it’s labeled for use in animals. Do not give any human or over-the-counter medications to your pet without direction from your veterinarian.
Additionally, there are some lifestyle habits that can help curb some of the effects of CCDS. Physical activity (pet permitting) is a great way to tire pets out and keep them enriched. Older pets might not tolerate long walks anymore, but several shorter walks or play sessions throughout the day can do the trick. Mental enrichment such as puzzle toys, slow feeders, or other food dispensing toys can also wear pets out, which can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
Finally, some things that can be done to improve your pet’s comfort and ease their anxiety include providing them with a soft, supportive bed (good for the joints!), using night lights in the hallways at nights so they can see if they need to get up, and establishing a good bedtime routine. Pets with CCDS tend to struggle sometimes when their routine is shaken up, such as during travel or when company visits, but do well when things remain as consistent as possible.
Important Considerations
It is important to keep in mind that while some of these changes may be frustrating at times, you should not punish your pet for any behavioral changes influenced by CCDS as this may lead to further stress and confusion for your pet. If your pet has become more irritable or less tolerant of things like being picked up, played with, or handled, it is important to respect their boundaries and let others who might be around your pet know to avoid your pet getting snappy with them. If you have concerns about your pet’s irritable or aggressive behavior, please let your veterinarian know immediately.
If you have noticed any unusual changes in your pet’s behavior or temperament, please reach out to us at 972-347-6100 to discuss and determine a possible cause.
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