Cognitive Dysfunction in Older Dogs
As your dog gets older, they’ll probably start to slow down a bit. This is perfectly natural. And their cognitive function might decline a bit, too. However, while some things can be chalked up to your dog simply getting older, not everything can. Cognitive dysfunction is a disease, and it should be dealt with by your veterinarian Spring Hill, TN.
Read on to learn more about cognitive dysfunction in dogs as your vet Spring Hill, TN elaborates:
What causes cognitive dysfunction?
Some amount of cognitive decline is natural as your dog gets older, just as it is in humans. But true cognitive dysfunction is a problem. Experts believe it’s caused by several things. For example: decreased dopamine levels, micro-hemorrhages in the brain that impair blood and oxygen flow, and a reduction in size and weight of the brain. Ask your animal hospital Spring Hill, TN for more information about these changes.
What are the symptoms?
Cognitive dysfunction might manifest itself in different ways. You might notice your dog having more trouble with movements and spatial orientation. They might seem to forget things that they once knew, like training or where objects are located. A dog might wander around the house restlessly, or pace at night. Some dogs eliminate in the house. Learn more about these symptoms from your veterinary clinic Spring Hill, TN, and call as soon as you notice something amiss.
How is it treated?
Once a confirmed diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction is reached, your vet clinic Spring Hill, TN can take steps to deal with the problem. A medication called L-Deprenyl helps to prolong dopamine activity in the brain. This works to lessen cognitive impairment, and it breaks down free radicals in the brain (harmful agents that destroy your pet’s cells). Many dogs show improvement after a regimen of L-Deprenyl.
There is also evidence that changes in diet can help with cognitive impairment. Ask your vets Spring Hill, TN about such a diet. They’re usually formulated with extra antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other ingredients that can help retain cognition. Of course, you'll want to ask your vet’s advice on transitioning Fido to a new food. And be sure to get insight into the proper serving size so your pet doesn’t pack on excess pounds.
Can cognitive dysfunction be prevented?
While there may not be a sure-fire way to prevent cognitive dysfunction completely, you can take steps to make it far less likely. Part of that involves feeding the proper diet. Ask your veterinarians Spring Hill, TN if your pet’s diet has the right amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. There are also dietary supplements that you can give your dog to boost his or her brain health.
It’s also important that you keep your dog mentally stimulated. Play with Fido every day, and keep up with training via verbal commands and hand signals. Having your dog work out their brain in this way is a good way to keep it functioning at a high level. Talk to your animal hospital Spring Hill, TN about the best training methods for older dogs.
As your dog ages, the staff at your pet clinic Spring Hill, TN is here for you. Set up your dog’s next appointment today.
