Spotting the signs of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in pets, often referred to as dementia in dogs and cats, isn’t always straightforward. Early symptoms can be subtle and are often mistaken for normal ageing, meaning many cases of pet dementia go undiagnosed.
In some cases, owners may assume their pet has dementia without seeking veterinary advice. This can lead to other underlying conditions being missed. For example, a dog that becomes restless and paces at night may be experiencing pain from osteoarthritis, rather than cognitive decline.
Raising Awareness of Dementia in Pets in Practice
Our ‘Dementia in Pets’ waiting room video is designed to help veterinary practices educate clients and raise awareness of age-related cognitive decline in pets. Delivered in an accessible and engaging format, it encourages owners to recognise behavioural changes and seek advice early.
The video explains that pets can develop dementia as they age and highlights common symptoms of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, including:
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- House soiling
- Restlessness or pacing
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Altered activity levels
- Appetite changes
- Increased anxiety
- Seeming ‘not quite themselves’
Encouraging Early Diagnosis and Veterinary Care
Importantly, the video emphasises that these symptoms are not specific to pet dementia and may indicate other medical conditions, such as chronic pain or osteoarthritis in older pets.
It encourages owners to book a veterinary consultation if they notice any changes, supporting early diagnosis of CDS and other common geriatric conditions in dogs and cats.
This helps your practice to:
- Identify cases of cognitive dysfunction in pets more effectively
- Diagnose and manage age-related conditions
- Strengthen preventative healthcare and client communication
Diagnosing and Managing Cognitive Dysfunction in Pets
There is currently no single diagnostic test for Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, it is a diagnosis made by ruling out other conditions.
While dementia in pets is progressive and has no cure, there are treatment options and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include medication, environmental adjustments, and supportive care at home.
Raising awareness helps challenge the belief that behavioural changes are “just old age” and reinforces that veterinary support can make a real difference.
Add a Dementia in Pets Video to Your Waiting Room
By adding the ‘Dementia in Pets’ video to your waiting room playlist, you can:
- Increase awareness of cognitive decline in older pets
- Encourage earlier conversations about pet health and behaviour changes
- Support early intervention and improved geriatric pet care
Start raising awareness of dementia in pets today by adding the video to your playlist.