Canine cognitive syndrome (CCS) is a common age-related condition that affects the brain of dogs, causing cognitive decline and behavioral changes. It is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, but not exactly the same. CCS can affect dogs of any breed, but it is more common in older dogs, usually starting around nine years of age or older.
CCS is caused by degenerative changes in the brain that impair the function of neurons, the cells that transmit information throughout the body. One of these changes is the accumulation of a protein called beta-amyloid, which forms plaques that interfere with neuronal communication. Another change is the loss of brain volume and weight due to neuronal death and reduced blood flow.
The signs of CCS may vary from dog to dog, but they can be grouped into four categories: disorientation, interaction, sleep, and house-soiling. These are also known as DISH:
- Disorientation: Dogs with CCS may get lost in familiar places, wander aimlessly, stare into space, get stuck in corners, or have difficulty finding food or water bowls.
- Interaction: Dogs with CCS may show changes in their social behavior, such as being more clingy or aloof, not recognizing familiar people or animals, or becoming more irritable or aggressive.
- Sleep: Dogs with CCS may have altered sleep patterns, such as sleeping more during the day and being restless or vocal at night.
- House-soiling: Dogs with CCS may lose their house-training skills and urinate or defecate indoors, even when they have access to the outdoors.
CCS is diagnosed based on the presence of these signs and ruling out other possible causes, such as pain, arthritis, vision or hearing loss, infections, tumors, or other systemic diseases. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend blood and urine tests or imaging tests to check for other conditions.
There is no cure for CCS, but there are ways to manage it and improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners. Treatment may include:
- Diet: Some prescription diets are specially formulated to support brain health and function in dogs with CCS. They contain antioxidants, fatty acids, and other nutrients that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
- Medication: Some drugs may help improve cognitive function and behavior in dogs with CCS by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, in the brain. These drugs include selegiline (Anipryl), propentofylline (Vivitonin), and nicergoline (Ergoloid).
- Supplements: Some supplements may have beneficial effects on brain health and function in dogs with CCS. These include omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), phosphatidylserine (CogniCare), SAMe (Novifit), antioxidants (Neutricks), and CBD oil.
- Environmental enrichment: Providing mental stimulation and physical activity for dogs with CCS can help slow down cognitive decline and improve behavior. This can include playing games, learning new tricks, exploring new places, interacting with other dogs or people, and providing toys or puzzles.
- Behavior modification: Using positive reinforcement techniques and avoiding punishment can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs with CCS. It can also help reinforce desired behaviors and discourage unwanted ones. For example, rewarding dogs for using a designated indoor potty area can help with house-soiling issues.
CCS is a progressive disease that worsens over time, but with early intervention and proper management, dogs can live longer and happier lives with their owners.
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References:
[1] Cognitive dysfunction syndrome | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/health-info/cognitive-dysfunction-syndrome
[2] Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Dogs - Veterinary Partner - VIN
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=9773661
[3] Canine cognitive dysfunction - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canine_cognitive_dysfunction
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