Treatment can ease cognitive disorder
Q: We have a 16-year-old Chihuahua with worsening cognitive dysfunction over the past eight weeks. Early signs started four months ago. She has been on SAMe, and her house soiling has improved. She walks in circles and gets herself trapped and bumps into things. I have read about resveratrol and ginkgo biloba. Not quite ready to lose her, but she is getting closer it seems.
Dr. Nichol: Your elderly dog is suffering from common symptoms of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). This is a difficult problem. Our pets seem to get more dear to us as they age. Treatment is worthwhile because it may improve a dog’s quality of life, but, like Alzheimer’s of humans, this disease will ultimately worsen. I’m sorry.
You are already doing the right thing by giving SAMe. Supplements intended for humans are OK, but your girl will do better with a veterinary brand like Denosyl. Fish oil is recommended to reduce inflammation in the brain. Senilife contains resveratrol and ginkgo biloba and helps protect aging neurons. Neutricks, another supplement, also provides neuroprotection and often improves signs of brain aging.
An antioxidant rich diet has been shown to slow advancement of cognitive decline. Purina Neuro Care is a new prescription food with medium chain triglycerides as an alternate energy source for the brain. If your veterinarian has prescribed a special diet for an ongoing medical problem, you should not make a change.
Daily running or brisk walking helps older dogs mentally and physically. You can exercise your girl’s brain and keep her occupied with fun and challenging interactive treat puzzle games (ninaottosson.com).
Finally, melatonin can be valuable for dogs who sleep excessively during the day but are restless at night. I recommend a twoto three-week trial of 1 mg for your Chihuahua, given about two hours before bedtime. If it helps her sleep better, you will, too. This is a stressful situation for committed pet parents; it’s a lot like caring for an elderly person. Be sure to take care of yourself.