While veterinary medicine has been successful in extending the lives of many pets, another growing challenge is dementia.
While veterinary medicine has been successful in extending the lives of many pets, another growing challenge is dementia.
According to one study, more than one in four dogs between the ages of 11 and 12 experience declines in canine cognitive function, and by the ages of 15 and 16, that rate rises to an astonishing 68%. .
Dr. Connor Ward, a veterinarian at RAPS Animal Hospital in Richmond, says there are several steps your doctor may suggest. However, there is no cure, and the effects of treatment vary widely from patient to patient.
“There are drugs that increase blood flow to the brain and may improve some of the symptoms associated with these diseases,” Ward says. “It's very variable. Among animals of the same size, given the same dose, and given the same level of clinical diagnosis, one animal may improve significantly, but another animal may not. The response may be very limited.”
Signs of dementia in pets have some similarities and differences with symptoms of dementia in humans.
“There are a lot of subtle changes, including general confusion, like forgetting what's in the house,” the veterinarian says.
Dogs may bark silently during the night or forget where they sleep.
“They end up sleeping in the middle of the hallway instead of their usual spot because they're completely unaware of what's going on,” Ward says. “A common problem in the advanced stages is urinating and defecating indoors.”
Other symptoms include wandering aimlessly or getting stuck on street corners. The animal's sleeping patterns may change, making it more restless at night and lethargic during the day. They may become withdrawn and avoid socializing with people. Cats may reduce or stop their grooming habits. Pets may exhibit personality changes such as becoming aggressive, anxious, or irritable.
As with any progressive disease, a decision must be made about when to humanely end your pet's life.
“These things are very often subjective,” Ward says. “If your pet is not in pain, appears relatively happy, and is not at immediate risk of self-harm, it makes sense to give them as long and happy a life as possible. You will need to discuss this with your veterinarian, but ultimately it is the family's decision.”
