What is canine dementia?
Canine dementia is also known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS). It is a condition that is related to the aging of the brain and has been compared to dementia or Alzheimers in humans. The condition occurs in older dogs and signs will gradually progress over time.
WHat are the main signs of canine dementia?
The main signs of canine dementia are associated with cognitive decline. There are signs associated with disorientation such as getting stuck in corners or going around obstacles, pacing aimlessly and not recongising familiar people or places. There can be changes in behaviour such as irritability, lack of desire to play and loss of appetite. They can have signs associated with increased anxiety or impaired memory such as loss of house training, inability to follow normal routines or becoming withdrawn. There may also be signs of sleep changes such as night waking or night barking or howling.
What causes canine dementia?
The exact causes are unknown. Some evidence shows that dogs with CCDS have an abnormal build up of beta amyloid in the brain. This has been show to decrease nerve signalling. Alongside this nerve signalling molecules are degraded more in dogs with CCDS. Some dogs are more prone to dementia such as those with epilepsy or which have had a sedentary lifestyle.
What treatments are available for dementia in dogs?
Whilst most dogs benefit from general management as outlined here there are some treatments that may be beneficial. Vivitonin is a prescription drug which helps with circulation of blood to the brain and other vital organs and can help with signs of dementia. Aprylic is a supplement with medium chain triglycerides to help support brain function. Aktivait is a supplement to help improve brain fucntion by removing free radicals and facilitate the transmission of brain signals. Also purina have produced a food called Neurocare which has been clinically proven to increase brain function.
How can we assess dogs with CCDS?
There is a questionaire developed to assess the severity. It can be found by clicking here. There are also some other diseases that can cause similar signs sometimes other tests may be run to rule out other diseases first before reaching a diagnosis of dementia?
