Common Diagnoses | Aging of the Mind
BEHAVIORAL CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH "AGING OF THE MIND"
In recent years, much has been learned about how your pet ages and what we can do to reverse or slow the aging process. There are both prescription and natural approaches to how your pet can be gracefully eased into their "golden years." Many problems that pet owners were once encouraged to accept are now treatable with safe and effective medications. Often you may not be aware that some of the behaviors a pet is showing are associated with aging of the brain. Both brain aging and other problems, such as arthritis, can slow down your pet. What you may not know is that these problems often can be easily differentiated and treated by your veterinarian with a comprehensive physical exam and thorough history. In some cases, basic blood work may be needed, but most pets can be diagnosed and given basic treatment options, even if you have limited financial means. Once your veterinarian determines your pet's symptoms are associated with aging of the mind, you can take more appropriate steps to improve their quality of life.
Why aging of the mind and body occurs:
The primary source of aging is caused by free radicals produced on a consistent basis in your pet's body. Most of these free radicals are produced as part of their normal body metabolism, but some can come from their external environment, many of which are not known at this time. Your pet's natural defense mechanisms render most of the free radicals harmless, but those that are not can cause damage to the cells within their body. Free radicals affecting the brain of your pet can cause a variety of signs and symptoms that you did not see in your pet in previous years.
Common behavioral symptoms associated with loss of brain function:
These common symptoms can appear quite acutely in some pets due to a summation effect, or you may see them appear much more gradually. If you see any of the symptoms below in your pet, talk to your veterinarian so that your pet can be appropriately treated and given the best opportunity to have a good quality of life:
- Isolation or lack of attention seeking behaviors they once had.
- Urinary or defecation "accidents;" often your pet may "not see it coming" or seems oblivious to this change in behavior.
- Failure to "warn you" when they need to go outside, or accidents outside the litter box.
- Excessive sleeping or lack of interest or attention when you call their name.
- Failure to greet or recognize familiar people, often including friends and family.
- Wandering or "dazed" behaviors, often in once familiar places.
- Head pressing or staring into walls or corners.
Many pets will have one or only a few of these behaviors and given time, many of the symptoms will become more obvious or the number of symptoms will increase. If it's not normal, it's probably "not normal."
Medications and follow-up care:
The list of possible medications and therapies depends a lot on your pet's individual symptoms. SAM-E (S-Adenosyl/L-Methionine) and Anipryl are two commonly used treatments for many pets. Natural remedies are often key in this aspect of veterinary medicine. Dr. Chris Hoppe and the other veterinarians at Canyon Pet Hospital will be able to give you helpful treatment options for your pet. Once your pet is prescribed recommended therapies, keep them on a regular medication schedule as directed and let your veterinarian know if you see any changes in symptoms, or if you are not getting the desired affect from the treatments. Follow up appointments are often necessary to gauge your pet's response to therapy. Client input, even via phone or e-mail updates, is always helpful.
Nutrition:
Proper nutrition for your pet is always important, but is especially necessary in their later years. Keep plenty of fresh water readily available in a predictable location for your pet. Make sure to keep your pet on a regular feeding schedule and do not make any significant changes in their exercise/play routine without consulting your veterinarian.