Does my pet have alzheimers?

Dogs and Cats may indeed suffer from something similar to what we humans know as Alzheimers. It’s called CDS or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. Many diseases and health issues with our pets that have never been recognized before, are surfacing because our pets are living longer now then in past generations. In years past, many pets were kept outside facing the perils most inside pets do not face. Additionally, veterinary care was minimal and pet just simply faced more issues that potentially shortened their lifetime. Though there are disputes that diets were more natural and pets were healthier because of that, they weren’t receiving the comforts that most receive now.

With healthier lifestyles, and the longevity, we’re seeing that some pets just like some people, have the plaque development in their brains that is likely the cause of this type of dimentia. But do all senior pets have this problem. No! Certainly not! A rule of thumb to follow to help you determine if your pet potentially is dealing with CDS versus simply growing old and uncomfortable, is to use the acronym DISH. Per Meredith Wargo’s article in Dog World Magazine, DISH stands for Disorientation, Interaction, Sleep and Housetraining. ‘D’… does your pet get stuck in corners and lost behind a piece of furniture? Does her/his name no longer elicit a response? ‘I’… does your pet no longer respond to you? Is there intolerance of interaction? ‘S’… is your angel sleeping more or at least sleeping more during the day and becoming a night owl? Is there pacing? ‘H’… how often are potty accidents occuring? Does your pet forget the reason for needing to go outside?

Whatever you do, DO NOT assume that if you see these signals, its CDS and that’s that. To diagnose this, your vet will have a multi step plan for you. And your vet will need to do a physical exam to rule out other physical health issues. And keep in mind that most likely, your pet will only have symptoms from one of these categories, versus all of them. Not always… but likely only one category of symptoms.

Whatever you do, be patient and loving and understanding. Remember that Inko’s is available to help you learn how to assist your pet in their transition to ‘Senior Years’. This is a big journey for your pet AND you. It’s very difficult, but also so beautiful and rewarding. Be sure to reference Meredith’s article in Dog World to learn more about options for holistic avenues, etc. in the December 2009 (yes, 2009) issue. Your pet needs as much now in their senior years, as when they were puppies. Be the best you can be for them!

Tags: aging pet, anxiety, cats, dogs, senior pet, senior pets