What Is Cognitive Decline?

Is your older dog or cat acting differently? Maybe your pet seems more confused, wanders around the house, sleeps most of the day, is suddenly awake at night, or forgets familiar routines. Do not assume a change in behavior is just old age. Other health problems can cause some of the same symptoms, so I recommend having your veterinarian rule those out first.

Signs of Cognitive Decline in Senior Pets

Cognitive decline can develop slowly, so the first changes may be easy to miss. You may notice that your pet is simply not acting like they used to.

Some common signs include:

• Wandering or pacing around the house 
• Staring at walls or into space 
• Getting confused in familiar places 
• Becoming stuck behind furniture or in corners 
• Sleeping more during the day 
• Waking up or wandering during the night 
• Having accidents in the house 
• Forgetting familiar routines 
• Becoming more anxious or restless 
• Less interest in playing or interacting with the family 
• Not responding to familiar commands 
• Changes in appetite 

The first signs of cognitive decline may show up in your pet's normal daily routine. A dog that always waited by the door to go outside may suddenly have an accident in the house. A cat may forget where the litter box is or seem confused about where to find food or water.

You may also notice changes in how your pet interacts with you. Some pets become more withdrawn, while others may follow their owners constantly or become anxious when left alone.

Changes in sleeping habits are also common. Your pet may sleep for much of the day and then become restless, pace, or wander around the house at night.

‍How Nutrition May Help Support the Aging Brain

Good nutrition is very important as your pet gets older. The brain, just like the rest of the body, needs the right nutrients to work properly.

I recommend feeding a high-quality diet made with good sources of animal protein and as few fillers, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors as possible. To learn more about feeding a high-quality diet, read my article, “How to Read a Pet Food Label.”

There is no single diet that is right for every senior pet. What you feed should be based on your pet's age, weight, activity level, health problems, and individual nutritional needs.

Supplements for Cognitive Support

Some senior pets may benefit from supplements that support brain health. I do not recommend adding several supplements just because your pet is getting older. What your pet needs depends on the diet, health history, medications, and any other health problems.

Some supplements I may recommend include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids 
• Vitamin E 
• B vitamins 
• Antioxidants 
• An all-around vitamin and mineral supplement when needed 

Choosing supplements for a pet with cognitive decline is not always simple. During a consultation, I look at what your pet is eating, your pet's medications, blood work, symptoms, and other health problems before recommending supplements.

Keeping Your Senior Pet Mentally and Physically Active

Keeping your pet active is important for both the body and the brain. The amount of activity will depend on your pet's age and health.

Daily walks, playing with favorite toys, and spending time outside can help keep an older dog active. Cats may enjoy short play sessions, watching birds from a window, or toys that encourage them to move and explore.

Mental activity is very important. Try teaching a simple new trick, hiding treats for your pet to find, or changing the walking route occasionally. Even small changes can give the brain something new to think about.

Do not push an older pet to do more than they can comfortably handle. The goal is to keep your pet interested, moving, and involved in everyday life.

When Your Pet Should Be Checked by Your Veterinarian

Changes in behavior are not always caused by cognitive decline. Other health problems can sometimes cause similar changes, especially in an older pet.

If your pet suddenly seems confused, starts having accidents in the house, becomes unusually restless, or stops eating normally, I recommend having your veterinarian check for other health problems.

Blood work and a physical exam may help find a problem that needs to be addressed. Once other health problems have been ruled out, you can focus on ways to support your pet through nutrition, supplements, exercise, and changes at home.

An Individualized Approach to Cognitive Decline

Every senior pet is different. When I work with a pet showing signs of cognitive decline, I look at the diet, weight, activity level, health history, medications, blood work, and changes in behavior.

During a consultation, I will use this information to develop a nutritional and holistic program based on your pet's individual needs.

If your senior dog or cat is showing changes in memory or behavior and you would like help with nutrition and natural support, contact For Pet Health to schedule a consultation.