Senility and Dementia

One of the most distressing problems for pets and their people is loss of mental functions. Our pets may lose their training (including housetraining). They may become nervous, easily stressed or agitated and disoriented, and may vocalize more. They may also stop interacting with us and other pets. Up to 50% of l0 -year-old dogs and 15-year-old cats have cognitive deficits similar to Alzheimer's.

This is where true hospice-type care often becomes necessary (see that sections for some hints). Just as crossword puzzles and Sudoku are considered helpful to our brains, it is important to keep our pet's mind going. Using food puzzles or scenting games, and teaching simple tricks can help, especially in early stages. Even something as simple as ringing a doorbell can stimulate their brain!

Keeping your pet to a good schedule with feeding and exercise and not allowing them to sleep all day can prevent them from wandering and vocalizing at night. Several supplements are available that may help with dementia (or cognitive dysfunction, as it's called in dogs), including special diets, fish oil, and products containing SAMe.

Our office is always happy to recommend high quality products as well as to offer expert advice! And as always, we need to rule out other problems first before we blame it on dementia. These senior exams are so very important!