What Is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), also termed Canine Cognitive Disorder (CCD), and commonly referred to as senility or “old dog” syndrome is a gradual, progressive loss of thinking (cognition) processes such as awareness, perception of surroundings, ability to learn, and memory. The family may note signs of this reduced cognition but not recognize the syndrome as a treatable disorder. This condition is not limited to extremely geriatric pets. A dog that is in the last one third of the normal lifespan can be affected. For the average dog, that is eight years of age or older. When animals age, they lose mobility, have reduced immune system function, slower metabolism, loss of muscle and bone mass, and their senses of hearing, sight, and smell are reduced. These are all normal aging changes. CDS is characterized by behavioral changes that can lead to a break in the close bond shared between pet and family members as changes in temperament or loss of housetraining occur. If you senior
