Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2019
- Authors:
- Dewey, Curtis Wells et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences · United States
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans and often affects older dogs, particularly those over 8 years old, with estimates showing that 14% to 35% of pet dogs may have it. Dogs with CCD may seem confused, anxious, have trouble sleeping, and interact less with their owners. While there is no cure for this condition, there are effective treatments that can help improve a dog's thinking skills and overall quality of life. Starting these therapies early can lead to better outcomes for your pet.
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is the canine analog of human Alzheimer disease (AD). The pathophysiology of CCD/AD is multifaceted. CCD is common in aged (>8 years) dogs, affecting between 14% and 35% of the pet dog population. Apparent confusion, anxiety, disturbance of the sleep/wake cycle, and decreased interaction with owners are all common clinical signs of CCD. Although there is no cure for CCD, several proven effective therapeutic approaches are available for improving cognitive ability and maintaining a good quality of life; instituting such therapies early in the disease course is likely to have the greatest positive clinical effect.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30846383/