Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a condition that affects senior pets by causing gradual brain degeneration, similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. This degeneration is caused by accumulating a toxic substance called beta-amyloid protein, decreased blood flow, and dysfunctional neurons. The brain degeneration results in declining cognitive function, causing signs represented by the acronym DISHAAL.

* Disorientation — Affected senior pets will have moments of confusion and may wander aimlessly.

* Interactions become abnormal — Your senior pet may lose interest in interacting with you or become more needy. They also may not recognize you or other family members.

* Sleep-wake cycle disturbances — Your senior pet may sleep more during the day and pace around or vocalize at night.

* House soiling — Your senior pet may forget their house training and urinate or defecate inside.

* Activity changes — Your senior pet may lose interest in eating, playing, walking, and socializing.

* Anxiety — Your senior pet may exhibit stress.

* Learning and memory changes — Your senior pet may forget common commands or get lost in familiar areas.

While you cannot ensure that your pet will not develop cognitive dysfunction, you can employ specific methods to slow your senior pet’s cognitive decline.

#1: Provide physical exercise for your senior pet

Physical exercise enhances the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections (i.e., neuroplasticity). Exercise also increases neuron and brain cell proliferation rates in some brain regions. Pets who are exercised regularly exhibit better spatial abilities and improved cognitive functions. Physical activity is a powerful neuroprotective factor against physiological and pathological aging seen in pets with CDS. 

If your senior pet is overweight or not accustomed to exercising, you must slowly and gradually increase their exercise time and intensity. They will benefit from a regular exercise regimen, and the physical activity will likely be good for you, too.

#2: Provide mental exercise for your senior pet

Your senior pet needs mental stimulation to keep them engaged. Play with them frequently and take them for walks in varying environments, exposing them to new experiences. Provide intriguing toys to play with that you change out often to ensure they do not become bored. Use food-puzzle toys to force them to use their brain to get a yummy treat. Devise games, such as hiding treats around the house that they have to find. You can also teach your senior pet a new trick or start a new training program to help keep them mentally focused.

#3: Provide nutritional support for your senior pet

Certain dietary supplements have been shown to improve antioxidant defenses and reduce the toxic effects of free radicals in pets dealing with CDS. Always consult your veterinarian before changing your senior pet’s diet.

* Antioxidants — The brain has a high metabolic activity, requiring a lot of oxygen. This makes the brain more vulnerable to attacks from unstable molecules called free radicals. Free radical attacks on brain cells result in memory loss. Antioxidants counteract free radicals, decreasing the adverse effects of oxidative stress.

* Omega-3 fatty acids — Fatty acids are vital for regular brain function maintenance. They preserve cell membrane health and help brain cells communicate.

* Phosphatidylserine — This is a natural phospholipid found in cell membranes and in high concentrations in the brain, especially at synapses. Phosphatidylserine facilitates neuronal processes, enhances acetylcholine release, activates dopamine release, and may improve pets' memory, learning, and social behaviors.

* Apoaequorin — An inability to regulate intracellular calcium is associated with increased age and may be linked to CDS in dogs. Apoaequorin is a calcium-buffering protein that has neuroprotective effects and may improve learning and attention in dogs.

* S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) — This supplement increases the production of the antioxidant glutathione, causing an increased serotonin turnover and increased dopamine and norepinephrine levels. SAMe supplementation may improve your senior pet’s activity and awareness.  

#4: Be present for your senior pet

Spend time with your senior pet to provide emotional comfort and support. They will feel more secure and less anxious if you are present. No strategy will prevent your pet from CDS, but your presence will be significant if they are affected by this distressing disease.

If your senior pet’s quality of life is negatively affected by CDS or another issue, contact Lap of Love’s telehospice service to see if veterinary hospice care could benefit your senior pet.