Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cognitive Changes Associated with Aging and Physical Disease in Dogs and Cats.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- Provoost, Lena
- Affiliation:
- University of Pennsylvania · United States
Plain-English summary
As pets get older, their behavior can change, which might be due to physical health issues or behavioral problems. It's important to understand that sometimes medical conditions can lead to changes in behavior that look like signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome, a condition that affects how pets think and learn. The article discusses how aging and various health issues can impact a pet's mental abilities and behavior. Recognizing these changes can help pet owners and veterinarians determine the best care for aging dogs and cats. Overall, understanding these connections can lead to better management of your pet's health and behavior as they age.
Abstract
Behavior changes may indicate primary physical disease or primary behavioral disorders in veterinary patients. It is imperative to recognize that secondary behavioral problems can develop due to medical causes. The incidence of systemic disease increases with age and behavior manifestations can be similar to those expected with cognitive dysfunction syndrome. In this article, we review basic concepts of cognition, aging, and cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Additionally, we provide information regarding factors that influence cognition, and the role medical conditions have on the behavior of aging pets.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37722947/